Jack Grealish is back in the frame at Everton after four matches out for what the club described as a breach of discipline. There is no point dressing it up. He let himself down, he let the club down and, by his own admission, he left the team without a player who was supposed to matter.
The 31-year-old returned in a behind-closed-doors game against Derby County, a 4-1 win that at least gave him minutes and a route back into contention. Whether it becomes anything more meaningful depends on what comes next, because apologies are easy enough, form and reliability are harder.
Everton comeback starts with clear apology
Grealish chose a direct approach after his return. “Nice to be back out there with the boys today after a few good days training,” Grealish wrote. He then added, “I want to apologise to the fans n (sic) everyone at the club for not been (sic) able to help the team the last few weeks.
“I love playing for this club n (sic) can’t wait to be back playing in front of you guys in an Everton shirt. See you all soon.”
That is the right message. It had to be. David Moyes backed the disciplinary call and Everton moved on without him for the last four fixtures. Now the burden is on Grealish to show this is not a brief reset followed by the same old issues.
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Brentford return offers Jack Grealish chance
His first possible competitive return comes on November 23 away to Brentford. Everton need more than a name on the teamsheet. They need production. So far, Grealish has no goals and no assists in six competitive appearances this season. For an attacking player trying to revive his standing, that is a poor return by any standard.
There is another layer here. He is in the final year of his Manchester City contract, and if this spell at Everton is going to lead anywhere, his numbers have to improve quickly. Sentiment does not keep players at clubs, output does.
Premier League form remains the real issue
There is still a case for believing he…
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