Jack Grealish’s Everton Revival Sparks World Cup Redemption Debate
Jack Grealish's impactful performances at Everton reignite discussions about his potential role in England's 2026 World Cup campaign, as pressure mounts on manager Thomas Tuchel to reconsider the midfielder's international future.



Late Heroics Reignite Grealish’s England Prospects
Everton’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium saw Jack Grealish deliver a 93rd-minute winner, intensifying calls for his England recall. The on-loan Manchester City midfielder’s strike (92:21) marked Everton’s latest home winner since March 2022, capping a remarkable personal resurgence.
By the Numbers:
- 6 consecutive Premier League starts (first in 2.5 years)
- 5 goal contributions in 7 matches (1G, 4A)
- 17 chances created since August loan move
- 10 shots attempted in current campaign
"It’s mad – I kept visualizing these late winners," Grealish told Sky Sports post-match. "When it finally happened, running to my family in the stands... that’s football magic."
Tuchel’s Selection Headache Intensifies
Despite being omitted from England’s squad for Wales/Latvia fixtures, Grealish remains philosophical:
"National selection isn’t personal – those picked deserve it. My focus is repaying Everton’s faith."
Three Lions legend Wayne Rooney countered: "That match-winning quality? That’s exactly what tournament football demands. Tuchel’s got a proper selection headache brewing."
Tactical Impact:
- Positional versatility (LW/CAM/RW)
- 83% duel success rate in final third
- 2.3 key passes per 90 minutes
- 91st percentile for progressive carries among PL midfielders
Road to World Cup 2026
With 249 days until England’s World Cup opener, Grealish faces crucial months:
- Maintain fitness (missed 3 training sessions this month)
- Navigate Man City loan restrictions
- Prove consistency across 38-game season
Thomas Tuchel remains non-committal: "Jack’s progressing well. The door isn’t closed – but nor is it automatic."
Manager Perspectives
David Moyes (Everton): "We’re unlocking his final-third instincts. Today’s goal? That’s why we fought for this loan."
Roy Hodgson (Palace): "Grealish changes games in moments – that’s elite mentality. England should value that."
Historical Context
- Last England cap: 9/5/24 vs Finland (Nations League)
- 39 international appearances | 4 goals
- Only English midfielder with 5+ G/A this season
Jack Grealish’s late strike ended Palace’s 8-game unbeaten run