Ex-Everton defender Michael Ball has been impressed by the way Jack Grealish has stayed connected with the club even in injury
Jack Grealish warms up prior to the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Everton at Villa Par. Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Jack Grealish warms up prior to the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Everton at Villa Par. Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
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The more this season develops, the more I think Jack Grealish has really bought into Everton - even if he is unable to get on the pitch.
For six months we saw his talent and class shine as he played a leading role in giving the team the swagger and confidence it needed to get over the line in big games. He scored big, match-winning goals against Crystal Palace and at Bournemouth and I think his influence was key to those amazing wins at Manchester United and Aston Villa.
It was such a shame to learn of his injury after that Villa win - in a season of progress it has been frustrating Everton had to play without another star player Jarrad Branthwaite for the opening months and now, because of the stress fracture to his foot, Jack Grealish for the second half of the campaign.
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Yet while Grealish is unable to contribute on the pitch, there is plenty to suggest he can do so off it - and that he is doing just that. That came to the fore across recent weeks with his appearances at events led by Everton in the Community. Even though he has been on crutches and in a protective boot - even though his rehabilitation programme has provided him with an excuse not to - he has shown up to support the charity and its initiatives.
He doesn’t have to be there but watching him mix with those receiving support, from children to pensioners, has been great.
Most of us have seen that he has continued to support his teammates during his time out, often sharing messages of support and encouragement for good performances on his social media. And even when he is not playing, his box at Hill Dickinson Stadium is typically filled with friends and family who are all cheering on the Blues.
The terms of his loan deal means he has to undertake his recovery at Finch Farm but when you have an injury it can be so tempting to slip into home comforts and to become distanced from your teammates. That does not appear to be happening and the impact of having someone like Jack around the place should be positive - imagine being a young player and getting to learn tips from him, or getting to just watch how a world class player handles himself. I would be like a sponge watching him.
The extent to which he has remained engaged has been impressive and deserves credit. It also makes me feel positive about the chances of him staying at the club - he seems happy and as though he wants to be a part of this great football club.