Key Takeaways
- Jack Grealish reports excellent progress in his recovery from a stress fracture operation.
- Everton hope to sign the midfielder permanently for a fee below Manchester City’s £50 million valuation.
- The player has extended his role as ambassador for Special Olympics Great Britain for three more years.
England international Jack Grealish has delivered encouraging news about his foot injury. The midfielder says his recovery is progressing very well ten weeks after surgery.
The 30-year-old suffered a stress fracture during Everton’s 1-0 victory against his former club Aston Villa in January. This injury ended his season prematurely. However, the Manchester City loanee now feels strong again.
“I had a video call with my surgeon recently,” Grealish told BBC Sport. “He said the healing could not look better at this stage. This is fantastic news for me.”
Before the setback, the winger made 22 appearances for the Toffees across all competitions. He scored twice and provided six assists during his loan spell. Watching the recent Merseyside derby from the stands proved emotional for the player. He admitted he misses playing football greatly.
Grealish has one year remaining on his contract at Manchester City. Everton would like to make his transfer permanent. However, the Merseyside club hope to negotiate a price lower than the Citizens’ £50 million asking fee.
The England star praised Everton’s support during his rehabilitation. He thanked the manager, staff and team-mates for their excellent care while he recovers.
Away from the pitch, Grealish continues his charity work. He has renewed his position as lead ambassador for Special Olympics Great Britain for another three years. The organisation supports over 6,500 athletes with intellectual disabilities.
This week, the midfielder welcomed Special Olympics athletes to his club’s training ground. The group had recently completed the London Marathon. Grealish explained that the cause is deeply personal to him because his younger sister lives with cerebral palsy.
“I want to help these athletes as much as I can,” he said. “Making people happy is very important to me.”