Jack Grealish says his recovery from a season-ending foot injury is progressing well, with the midfielder encouraged by the latest feedback from his surgeon as he works towards a Premier League return.
The 30-year-old, currently on loan at Everton from Manchester City, underwent surgery on a stress fracture during their 1-0 win over former club Aston Villa in January.
Now, nearly 10 weeks into his recovery, Grealish says the signs are good.
“I feel good about myself now,” he told BBC Sport. “I had a 10-week Zoom call with the surgeon, who said it couldn’t look any better at this stage.
“So for me, it’s happy days and it’s good to hear such news.”
Grealish made 22 appearances in all competitions for Everton before the injury, contributing two goals and six assists during his spell on Merseyside.
Grealish shows injury frustration
Despite the positive review, Grealish admitted that the mental challenge of being sidelined was difficult, especially watching him stand.
“As a football player, it is always difficult to get injured,” he said. “I came to the Merseyside derby and it blew me away, because it’s something I miss doing a lot.”
The England international was quick to praise Everton for supporting him during his recovery, highlighting the role of his staff and teammates in helping him through the process.
“I can’t thank them enough for the way they treated me when I was injured – they were brilliant. From the staff, to the players, to the manager.”
Grealish has one year left on his Manchester City contract, and Everton are understood to be interested in making the move permanent, although a deal could depend on negotiations over City’s fee.
Grealish continues in an ambassadorial role with Special Olympics GB
Away from the pitch, Grealish is also involved in his role as a key ambassador for Special Olympics Great Britain, recently extending his involvement with the organization for a further three years.
The midfielder invited a group of runners who completed the London Marathon in Everton to Hill Dickinson Stadium this week, praising their success.
“Having 10 of them run the London Marathon was amazing,” she said. “Years ago people didn’t think that would happen – it’s unbelievable.”
Grealish has been a long-time supporter of the organization which provides sporting opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, and says the cause is personal to him.
“My younger sister has cerebral palsy – it’s something close to me, something I’ve always wanted to be involved with,” he added.
“I live my life trying to make people happy … all I want to do is help them as much as possible.”
