Alan Shearer wants to see Jack Grealish rebuild his career at Everton after having a 'tricky time' under Pep Guardiola. However, he highlighted an immediate concern that the winger has not had regular minutes for Manchester City in a while and could get off to a slow start. Grealish only made seven starts in the Premier League last season, scoring three times in all competitions.
Everton were quick to firm up their interest in Grealish when it became clear that he was available for a summer exit. He will be desperate to make a fresh start on Merseyside as he looks to work his way back into the England squad for the upcoming World Cup. Shearer believes the move is a gamble on Everton's part, given the struggles Grealish has faced in recent seasons.
Speaking to Betfair, the former England striker said: "I guess someone somewhere had to take a look at him and see whether the belief, hunger, drive and all of those things are still there.
"There are one or two question marks, whether Jack likes it or not, because he hasn't played football regularly for such a long time. Everton have taken a chance on him now and he's got the chance to get his career back on track."
Shearer went on to suggest that Grealish may have struggled with the high turnover of players at City last season, in addition to the relentless demands of Guardiola.
"I'm just guessing and looking from the outside, but I think he’s had a tricky time with the number of players and one or two things that Pep didn't like off-field," added Shearer.
"If he couldn't get into the team last season when they were really poor, by their very own high standards, didn't win anything and weren't winning games, then I guess once that happens both parties had to look for an exit."
Speaking after his loan move to Everton was officially confirmed, Grealish said: "I'm over the moon to have signed for Everton. It's massive for me, honestly. This is a great club with great fans.
"As soon as I spoke to the manager, I knew there was only one place that I wanted to go. On social media, I've been flooded with messages from Everton supporters, so there's that side of it as well and that's another reason why I chose Everton.
"I want to say thank you to the fans for all of the messages I've had already. Thank you for all of the love and support. I hope I can repay you now and I'm sure I will."
Grealish could make his debut for the Toffees in their Premier League opener against newly-promoted Leeds United on Monday night.
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