Wayne Rooney and Jack Grealish
(Credit: MOTD/Imago)
Josh Edwards
Thu 14 August 2025 8:31, UK
Jack Grealish’s arrival at Everton has already seen Wayne Rooney fire shots elsewhere.
David Moyes will be delighted with the way Everton’s summer recruitment plans have been accelerated over the last few weeks, with the loan arrival of Grealish a statement of their intent under The Friedkin Group.
The Toffees have significantly bolstered their squad, with several debuts expected when they return to Premier League action to face Leeds United.
Grealish is all but nailed on to make his debut, and will wear the number 18 shirt with Rooney explaining the irony behind it.
Everton look set to sign Jack Grealish.
Grealish will shine at Everton (Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media)
Grealish set to wear same number as Phil Neville at Everton
The number 18 was also worn by Rooney throughout his time at Goodison Park, and there are plenty of iconic names that Grealish will follow in the footsteps of.
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Paul Gascoigne is another, though the number was adorned by Phil Neville between 2005 and 2013, and it seems like Rooney wasn’t going to let go of that when discussing Everton’s latest arrival.
Some of Everton’s number 18s over the years.
Wayne Rooney
Paul Gascoigne
Ashley Young
Gareth Barry
Via Match of the Day, he said: “Jack’s a fantastic player and we did speak about it tongue in cheek, really in terms of the number 18 shirt.”
When pointed out that Gascoigne and he himself had worn the shirt, Rooney cheekily replied: “Unfortunately, Phil Neville wore it as well.”
Read More: Jack Grealish already shows why every fan will love him after latest Everton update
Grealish can transform Everton
The Englishman has lost his way over the last few years, but the level of ability he has is undeniable.
With less pressure and a significantly improved squad, Everton could be the ideal place for Grealish to get back to his best.
His ball-carrying ability is going to be crucial for Moyes’ side, who will look to utilise him in several different positions given the level of versatility in his game.
Providing he can stay fit, this looks set to be a major coup from the Toffees, and the type of signing that will take them to the next level.
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