Grealish Leaves Coleman Stunned With Training Form Before Everton Return

Jack Grealish has made a lasting impression on Merseyside, and former Everton captain Seamus Coleman is happy to confirm it. Grealish spent last season on loan at Goodison Park and found a revival after a difficult spell at Manchester City.

The Toffees wanted him back and secured another season-long loan on deadline day earlier this month. The 31-year-old made 20 Premier League appearances last term, with injuries limiting his involvement, but Coleman was struck by his quality on the training pitch regardless.

The former Republic of Ireland international discussed Grealish’s impact on the latest episode of the Stick to Football podcast, revealing just how difficult it was to get the ball off the winger during sessions.

“He came in, and you’ve seen how much fans have taken to him, they absolutely love him,” Coleman explained. “When he came in, he was a level above. He was really, really good. You just can’t get the ball off him, even in training.”

“When he feels loved and he’s got a fanbase behind him, I think he reacts to that. He was really, really good for us up until he got injured, and I’m hoping that will be the case again.”

Grealish arrived at Everton looking to rediscover the form that once made him one of the most exciting players in the Premier League. His £100million move from Aston Villa to Manchester City in 2021 carried massive expectations, but his time at the Etihad Stadium never settled into a rhythm.

A Fresh Start Suited Grealish

After struggling for consistency under Pep Guardiola, the move to Everton handed Grealish a level of freedom he hadn’t experienced in years. That freedom suited him instantly. He became a popular figure among the Everton supporters within weeks of arriving.

Coleman’s comments suggest the connection went beyond the matchday crowd. The former captain saw first-hand how Grealish’s confidence and ability could flourish when he felt trusted and appreciated by those around him.

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Fitness Remains the Key Factor

Everton will hope the winger can now deliver a full season without the injury setbacks that disrupted his first campaign at the club. With Grealish back for another year, the Toffees have a player Coleman believes can make a real difference, provided he stays fit throughout the campaign.

Coleman himself ended his 17-year association with Everton at the close of last season. The 37-year-old, who joined the club from Sligo Rovers for just £60,000 back in 2009, racked up 435 appearances for the Merseyside side and scored 28 goals along the way.

Keep following TipsGG for the latest on Grealish’s fitness updates and Everton’s build-up to the new Premier League season.