Some good points from Tim here.
The nation of Ireland veered towards apoplectic implosion, on Tuesday, as Jack Grealish informed Martin O’Neill that he would be sticking to his guns.
The Ireland Under-21 international has previously stated that he wants to wait until the beginning of next season to make a call on whether he declares for the Irish or English senior team.
Still, Grealish’s future was thrown into the spotlight again as Martin O’Neill informed him that he wanted to include him for upcoming friendly matches and the Euro 2016 Qualifier against Scotland.
The Aston Villa midfielder remained non-committal and O’Neill stated his disappointment at the decision.
Villa boss Tim Sherwood came out in defence of Grealish this afternoon.
He said, ‘I don’t think Jack didn’t want to play for Ireland, I don’t think he didn’t want to play for England or Brazil either. In that case was he was always going to decide on his international future at the end of this season.’
Sherwood, who is hoping to lead Villa to Premier League safety and FA Cup success, commented, ‘[Jack has] got three very important games to take care of for Aston Villa. His concentration is fully on that.
‘His international career will be put on hold. Jack hasn’t made his mind up what country he wants to represent. The good news is they all want him. It’s a decision only Jack has to make in a cool, calm situation at the end of this season.’
Sherwood, a former England international, added, ‘It’s only Jack and his family who can make that [decision]. If he wants guidance from me, unfortunately I can’t give it him. Jack has to know who he wants to represent.
‘It’s not a slant on Ireland, England or anyone. He will make his decision. He’s good enough to play international football but he’s putting that on hold.’
Hat-tip: Birmingham Mail
