Former Premier League midfielder Andy Townsend has questioned whether Everton can field Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in the same side, with the latter impressing during the on-loan winger's absence.
Grealish has missed Everton's last four matches, against Arsenal, Newcastle United (home and away) and Coventry City. The club initially cited "sickness" as the reason for his absence ahead of the trip to the Emirates Stadium, but before the Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle at Hill Dickinson Stadium, the Blues said the 31-year-old had been omitted due to a disciplinary breach. He also remained unavailable for the subsequent two fixtures.
Dewsbury-Hall's standout form
During Grealish's absence, Dewsbury-Hall has become the main creative outlet for David Moyes' men. He provided an assist for Thierno Barry in the 3-1 Carabao Cup win over Newcastle and scored Everton's third goal as they came from behind to beat Coventry by the same scoreline last Friday.
With the second international break of the season now underway, Everton do not resume action until Monday, November 23, when they visit Brentford. The ECHO understands Grealish has returned to the club's Finch Farm training base and is on a tailored programme as he looks to regain his fitness.
Townsend's doubts over balance
Townsend, a former captain at Grealish's first club Aston Villa, spoke courtesy of BettingLounge. He said: "Everton have been going really well lately. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall played particularly well against Newcastle and Coventry, and I wonder whether you can play Jack Grealish and him in the same team.
"They beat Newcastle in both the cup and the league, and Dewsbury-Hall was standout. Although he and Jack don't play the exact same position, they have a similar attacking focus, and the balance isn't always right with both of them on the pitch.
"Coming back to Jack, usually when a player steps out of line or misses training, there's a telling off, a fine, and everyone moves on. With Jack, it feels a bit different, there's more to it.
"As someone who has met him several times, I know he's an extremely likeable lad, and I sincerely hope he's okay first and foremost.
"I hope he can get back into the team. The key for Jack Grealish is enjoying his football, he needs to enjoy it to produce his best, I haven't seen that joy in his game for a while now.
"If he feels good about Everton and wants to deliver for David Moyes, Jack needs to get back into the fold, put his head down, and find that extra gear.
"We know the talent is there. If he has an issue, I hope he resolves it so we can see him back at his best soon."
Grealish, the first £100 million English footballer, now faces a return to a side that has been winning without him, with Dewsbury-Hall's recent performances giving Moyes a selection dilemma.
