Everton will be without one of their key players for the Premier League clash against Manchester City today, as Jack Grealish is ineligible to face his parent club due to competition rules regarding loanees.
The 30-year-old, who joined the Toffees on a season-long loan, has been a standout performer, sharing the league lead in assists and rediscovering the form that earned him a move to the Etihad.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola praised the winger’s resurgence in his pre-match press conference.
“Obviously he is there. The impact has been massive from day one. He got minutes and minutes and this is what he wanted,” Guardiola commented, adding that Grealish is “back to real business, he’s playing every game.”
The mandatory absence is a major blow for Everton, with boss David Moyes admitting the size of the loss. “Jack will be a miss for us because he has played so well. We will rejig, get ready, and get ready to go,” Moyes confirmed.
Grealish, who was named Player of the Month for August, is expected to be in attendance at the Etihad Stadium to watch the match from the stands. His return to action for Everton is scheduled for next Sunday against Tottenham Hotspur.