Jack Grealish has not been involved with the England national team for more than 12 months, but the Everton midfielder is still desperate to pull on the Three Lions shirt
Jack Grealish celebrates scoring the winning goal during the match between Everton and Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 5, 2025
Jack Grealish celebrates scoring the winning goal during the match between Everton and Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 5, 2025(Image: Emma Simpson/Everton FC Official Photography Library/SmartFrame)
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From being a hero in Manchester to becoming a key player at Everton, former Aston Villa skipper Jack Grealish's journey down the East Lancs Road seems to have broadened his horizons.
It has also given him more opportunities to showcase his football prowess. When he was overlooked for Gareth Southgate's England squad for Euro 2024, Grealish didn't hide his disappointment.
His reaction also carried a hint of resentment, as he firmly believed he had earned his spot on the flight to Germany. Who can say?
If he had been part of the team, he might have provided the spark England needed in its final loss to Spain.
Fast forward 15 months and while some things remain the same, others have evolved, reports the Mirror.
Grealish still finds himself on the periphery when it comes to the Three Lions. However, he now accepts his position, even if Thomas Tuchel's decision to overlook him, given his current form, seems more perplexing than Southgate's snub before the previous major tournament.
"At the end of the day, you want to play for the national team, but people are doing well in my position," Grealish admitted. "I'm doing well also, but the people picked last month did really well in the two games, so that's fine with me.
"That's the manager's decision and I fully respect that. I'm focused on playing for Everton because that's who put their trust in me and believed in me, so I'm really enjoying it here."
Few relish the opportunity to don an England shirt more than the affable Grealish. However, it's been over a year since he last had this privilege.
Deep down, this will be gnawing at him. But rather than moping, Grealish has chosen to take a proactive stance.
After being overlooked by Pep Guardiola for the Club World Cup in America, Grealish opted for a summer holiday. He subjected himself to gruelling late-night runs, the only feasible time due to the oppressive heat.
Upon his return to the Etihad, he trained solo and is now reaping the rewards, at least at club level. There's a mounting demand for Grealish to be granted another shot with England.
Tuchel should heed this call. Grealish has the ability to alter matches, assist and score goals, and also brings a positive vibe to the squad.
Now 30, Grealish recognises that next summer's World Cup will likely be his final opportunity to shine on the world's biggest stage. If he continues striving for a spot, it would be unwise of Tuchel not to afford Grealish the chance he merits.
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