Jack Grealish has apologised to Everton fans after returning to action following a three-match absence caused by a breach of club discipline. The on-loan Manchester City midfielder was back involved on Thursday in a behind-closed-doors victory against Derby County, ending a spell that had kept him out of two games against Newcastle United and the win over Coventry.
Grealish, who cost Manchester City £100m in 2021, is still waiting for his first goal contribution for Everton this season. Last season he scored twice in 22 games during a loan spell that was later cut short by injury, so there is already a sense of what he can bring when fit and available.
What Grealish said in his apology
In a message to supporters, Grealish said he wanted to apologise to the fans and everyone at the club for not being able to help the team over the last few weeks. He added that he loves playing for Everton and cannot wait to be back in front of the supporters in an Everton shirt.
He also said he was “nice to be back out there with the boys today after a good few days training” and told fans he “can’t wait to be back playing in front of you.” It was a straightforward response, but an important one after a period in which Everton had to manage without him.
How Everton handled his absence
David Moyes had already acknowledged that the international break could provide a window to resolve the issue. Before Everton’s game against Coventry, he said the break would give the club the opportunity to sort things out, adding only: “We just need to wait and see how things go.”
That is the reality of a disciplinary issue at a club like Everton: the football does not stop, and the absence is felt immediately. Grealish missed three matches in total, including two against Newcastle United, which underlined how quickly a short internal problem can turn into a broader selection issue.
Why the return matters
The key question now is not whether Grealish has quality. It is whether he can reset quickly and get back to influencing matches for Everton. He has already shown he can add something to this squad, and with his absence now over, the next step is turning the apology into performances.
For Everton, that means having one of their most recognisable players available again. For Grealish, it means putting a difficult few weeks behind him and making sure the next chapter is about football, not discipline.
