Jack Grealish has been backed to use his Euro 2024 heartbreak to recapture his "very best" form for Manchester City this season.
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Man City's Grealish struggled last seasonLeft out of England's Euro 2024 squadWinger backed to be at his best this termWHAT HAPPENED?
Grealish struggled with form and game time last season for City, scoring three goals and bagging as many assists in 36 matches. Contrast that with the 2022/23 campaign, where he made 50 appearances, scored five goals and notched 11 assists. After missing out on England's Euro 2024 squad, former City player Joleon Lescott has backed the 28-year-old to come good this term.
AdvertisementGettyWHAT JOLEON LESCOTT SAID
He told The Mirror: "Jack isn't surprising me in what he's doing and what he's done. He was always seen as a talent and his contribution for any team he plays regularly for. It was unfortunate for him that he didn't go to the Euros but he spoke on how determined he is for that to not happen again, and not just in a major competition but for any squad. I've been in a similar position myself – I missed the 2010 World Cup and was determined for that not to happen [again], and fast forward to the Euros and I was part of the starting eleven, so I'm sure if Jack can use that to his motivation then we're going to see the very best of him."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Grealish swapped Aston Villa for City in a £100 million ($129m) move in 2021 but he has not lived up to that astronomical fee so far. While he has shown he can be an important player under manager Pep Guardiola in stages, there is a real risk he could lose his spot in the starting XI – with the wideman even linked with an Etihad exit. If he doesn't get regular game time, it is not beyond the realms of possibility that leaves the Citizens.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
Grealish, who will have his sights getting back into the England squad following Gareth Southgate's departure, will hope to feature in City's Premier League opener against Chelsea away at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.