England manager Thomas Tuchel was spotted in deep conversation with Everton winger Jack Grealish following the Toffees' dramatic 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Monday night. The post-match interaction has ignited speculation about a potential international recall for the rejuvenated attacker ahead of next summer's World Cup.
A Warm Exchange Sparks Speculation
Tuchel, who watched the Premier League clash from the stands alongside his assistant Anthony Barry, sought out Grealish after the final whistle. The England boss was seen embracing the 30-year-old, wrapping an arm around him before sharing a handshake and what appeared to be an extended conversation away from the bustling dressing room tunnel. The exchange concluded with shared laughter, suggesting a positive discussion about the player's future prospects.
This encounter comes at a significant time for Grealish, who has experienced a career resurgence since his loan move from Manchester City to Everton. Under manager David Moyes, the winger has registered one goal and four assists in 11 Premier League appearances, with Moyes recently praising him as 'even better than I thought he was'.
Grealish's England Journey Under Tuchel
Grealish's last appearance for the Three Lions came against Finland in October 2024, just three days before Tuchel's appointment as England manager. The attacker had enjoyed a productive spell under interim coach Lee Carsley, scoring twice in three Nations League appearances, but hasn't started for his country since the German took charge.
Tuchel had previously revealed his intention to contact players on England's extended list to explain their omission from recent squads. Grealish confirmed the manager had called him after the latest selection for matches against Serbia and Albania, explaining his exclusion was due to the volume of left-wing options already in the squad.
'I will explain to them why they are not here and how they can get into the squad,' Tuchel stated last week. 'Where they can improve, whether they can do something or if it's just a selection. This is my job for the coming weeks and months.'
Garner Also Catches the Manager's Eye
Tuchel didn't limit his post-match attention to Grealish alone. The England manager was also seen sharing a warm interaction with Everton midfielder James Garner, engaging in conversation and a handshake with the 24-year-old.
Garner, who last represented England during their Under-21 European Championship-winning campaign, has enjoyed impressive form for the Toffees this season. His performances have prompted manager David Moyes to publicly advocate for his inclusion in the senior national team setup.
'I really like him and I think he's a really good player, and he should be in a group of English midfielders who are doing well,' Moyes said earlier this month. 'I see that Alex Scott has been called up by England, so I would have thought Jimmy Garner's current form as a midfielder wouldn't be too far away from that either.'
Despite Moyes' endorsement, Garner faces fierce competition in England's crowded midfield, contending with emerging talents like Elliott Anderson and Adam Wharton for a place in Tuchel's plans.
For Grealish, who made substitute appearances during England's 2022 World Cup campaign before being omitted from the Euro 2024 squad, this renewed attention from the national team boss represents a significant opportunity to reclaim his place ahead of major tournament football.
