As if Jack Grealish didn’t have enough on his plate, he has nonsense like this to contend with.
The Aston Villa winger has become one of the most discussed players in the Premier League in recent months after a string of stellar performances have increased speculation about which national side, the Republic of Ireland or England, he would declare for.
The Solihull-born 19-year-old turned down the chance to join Martin O’Neill’s side for the upcoming Euro 2016 qualifier with Scotland as he takes his time in making such a big step.
And UK bookmaker Betway saw the opportunity to throw up a novelty bet based on Grealish’s indecision as they offered the odds of 7/4 on the player singing God Save The Queen ahead of kick-off in today’s FA Cup final against Arsenal.
Whether he sings the English national anthem or not is clearly irrelevant as he was born and raised in Birmingham so the decision to carry that market is little more than a feeble publicity stunt, a view echoed by football journalist and author of Invincble, Amy Lawrence.
Betting company offering odds on if Jack Grealish, a boy with Anglo/Irish roots, will sing God Save the Queen. Poor stunt. Give him a break!
— Amy Lawrence (@amylawrence71) May 29, 2015
Lawrence’s tweet prompted some intense opinions.
@amylawrence71 As an Anglo-Irish person myself, I find that pretty offensive. That kind of thing encourages xenophobia/prejudice.
— Steve Shea (@SteveShea) May 29, 2015
@amylawrence71 This reminds me a little of James McClean and his problems with ‘Poppy Bullies’. Hopefully Grealish won’t suffer the same.
— Steve Shea (@SteveShea) May 29, 2015
@amylawrence71 @Alan_Alger_ I’m half Irish/half English & proud of both. To pin point that song as a bet is unfair & niavie on implications
— Tony McCool (@antmccool7) May 29, 2015
@amylawrence71 he will do what most footballers do, mouth closed and look straight ahead! Abuse if he sings, abuse if he doesnt-no win 4 him
— Terry Kelly (@TerBelgium) May 29, 2015
