Maybe – just maybe – Tim Sherwood was on to something.
A couple of months back, he appeared on Sky Sports’ The Debate show. One of the topics up for discussion on that particular occasion was Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the World Cup this summer.
Explaining that there was a lack of creativity amongst English players, Sherwood suggested that Jack Grealish – a player he admitted was “way off the scene” in terms of international selection – might be able to do enough to force his way into contention for a seat on the plane to Russia.
At the time, there weren’t too many that appeared to agree with Sherwood, who had coached Grealish during his time as Aston Villa manager.
While there’ll still be plenty of people who haven’t considered the midfielder as a realistic option for Southgate’s World Cup squad, Grealish’s performance in the second city derby on Sunday certainly caught the attention of some. The 22-year-old was impressive throughout the game, helping Villa to a 2-0 victory.
Although it might still seem very unlikely, some were starting to wonder whether or not Grealish could work his way into the England senior squad in what’s left of the season.
It would be a turn up for the books for the 22-year-old, who was forced to endure some barbs from Republic of Ireland fans after his decision to declare for England two years ago.
As Ireland qualified for Euro 2016, and he travelled to Toulon with the England under-21s, he was subject so some social media needle.
If he got called up to the England squad for the World Cup, his decision would be justified.
Should Jack Grealish be back in the England team? #Villa #England #pl
— Adam (@AdzRichBarr) February 11, 2018
Jack Grealish is class go on Southgate should be looking at him for England
— Cozzy Matt (@cozzy_matt) February 11, 2018
If Grealish keeps this form up it won't be long before that England call up comes. Damn shame for Ireland though #AVLBIR
— PaddyT 🔰 (@paddyt007) February 11, 2018
Get Jack Grealish into the England squad ASAP
— Rob Warner (@Real_Rob_Warner) February 11, 2018
Jack Grealish has to be on that plane to Russia in the summer #England
— Marco (@MarkiieeMaark) February 11, 2018
With the absolute dross thats in the england squads nowadays Jack Grealish has gotta be worth a shout! The bloke has a ridiculous amount of ability
— kieran mallett (@avfckieran) February 11, 2018
Time will tell.
