Jack Grealish has been told he can fire Everton into Europe – but only if he gets back to his best. Grealish is currently back at Manchester City after his loan spell with the Blues came to an end last month.
The England international’s season at Everton ended in mid-January when he was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his foot that required surgery. Grealish’s rehabilitation is well underway, and there is a desire at the Blues – and they believe on the side of the player – for him to return to the club this season.
Another loan deal is likely given the 30-year-old has one year remaining on a contract at the Etihad, understood to be worth in excess of £350,000 a week.
Louis Saha: Grealish must improve to earn Everton return
Former Everton forward Louis Saha, speaking via LiveFootballTickets, believes: “It will be interesting to see if Everton re-sign Jack Grealish this summer. On top form, Grealish is the exact player that Everton need, and the form he showed at the beginning of last season is what Everton need to demand from him if they do re-sign him.
“I see a lot of headlines around Jack saying that he’s almost guaranteed to go back to Everton if he wants the move. However, I think he needs to be much improved if he wants Everton to re-sign him. Everton are not a one-player club, and everyone has to earn their place at Everton.
“There’s no doubt that Jack is talented and he needs to display that more often if he goes back to Everton this summer. He needs to be a team player and contribute more on the pitch. If he does that, then he would be a really important signing for Everton and push them towards European football next season.”
Gareth Barry: Grealish could win place back at City
However, former Blues and City midfielder Gareth Barry believes Grealish could win his place back at the Etihad under new boss Enzo Maresca.
“Jack is only 30, so he has plenty of years left,” Barry said, via Lyllo Casino. “I don't think he'll look outside the Premier League yet. Everton will have an interest, and he seemed to enjoy it there. I'd put my money on him staying there if a fee can be agreed.
“I'd like Jack to have a pre-season to impress Enzo Maresca before looking at other options. He might want to go out on a high at Manchester City in the last year of his contract, but a permanent move to Everton seems most likely.”
