Shay Given has backed his former teammate Jack Grealish, insisting the Manchester City forward still walks into any Premier League starting XI — including those of Liverpool and Chelsea.
Despite playing a key role in City’s historic treble-winning season two years ago, Grealish has slipped down the pecking order at the Etihad.
The 29-year-old started just 16 matches across all competitions during the 2024–25 campaign and was notably left out of the squad altogether for City’s final Premier League game against Fulham in May.
A week later, he remained on the bench during the FA Cup final defeat against Crystal Palace, with Pep Guardiola instead handing a debut to 19-year-old Claudio Echeverri in a bold attempt to turn the game around — a gamble that ultimately failed as City couldn’t find an equaliser.
Grealish is expected to leave the Etihad this summer, with Tottenham, Newcastle United, and Grealish's former club Aston Villa are among the sides reportedly showing interest in the England international, with the latest reports suggesting he could be available for around $54 million (£40 million).
Given, who played alongside Grealish during their time at Villa Park, believes there will be no shortage of potential suitors for the attacking midfielder.
"I think Jack has been a generational talent, I really do", the former Manchester City goalkeeper told Metro. "I think Jack can play for every single team in the country.
"I remember not so long ago he was playing a central role for England when they played Ireland last year, he was the star man, he was phenomenal that day."
Jack Grealish
Shay Given believes Jack Grealish walks into Liverpool's starting XI (Image: Getty Images)
The 49-year-old added: "He is only 29, he still has three or four brilliant years ahead of him at the top. Having not played recently, he will be really hungry to go out there and show how good he is.
‘I wouldn’t want to name clubs but at the same time I think he walks into any team in the country, that even includes Liverpool or Chelsea or anyone.
"I think he just needs to be given a batch of games to show how good he is back in that central position and not out wide."
Liverpool.com says: While Jack Grealish is undeniably talented, his recent dip in form and lack of game time at Manchester City raises questions about whether he currently outperforms the likes of Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, or Cody Gakpo on Liverpool’s left flank.
Grealish at his best would certainly challenge for a spot, but based on recent performances, walking into Liverpool’s starting XI isn’t as clear-cut as it sounds.