Jack Grealish's behaviour in training left team

Jack Grealish's behaviour in training left team-mate stunned after Everton transfer

Jack Grealish's behaviour in Everton training has offered a fascinating insight into the Manchester City loanee

Jack Grealish has made a big impression on Merseyside – just ask Everton legend Seamus Coleman. Grealish spent last season on loan at Everton and enjoyed something of a revival after a difficult spell at Manchester City.

The Toffees were keen to keep him and secured another season-long loan on deadline day earlier this month. The 31-year-old made 20 Premier League appearances last term, with injuries limiting his involvement, but Coleman was nonetheless struck by his quality in training.

The former Republic of Ireland international was speaking on the latest episode of the Stick to Football podcast when he revealed just how difficult it was to get the ball off the winger.

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"He came in - and you've seen how much fans have taken to him, they absolutely love him," Coleman explained. "When he came in, he was a level above.

"He was really, really good. You just can't get the ball off him, even in training.

"When he feels loved and he's got a fanbase behind him, I think he reacts to that. He was really, really good for us up until he got injured, and I'm hoping that will be the case again."

Grealish arrived at Everton looking to rediscover the form that made him one of the most exciting players in the Premier League.

His £100million move from Aston Villa to City in 2021 brought huge expectations, but his time at the Etihad Stadium has not gone entirely to plan. After struggling for consistency under Pep Guardiola, a move to Everton gave him the chance to play with greater freedom.

That appeared to suit Grealish, who quickly became a popular figure with the Everton supporters. Coleman's comments suggest that the connection extended beyond the matchday crowd, with the former captain seeing first-hand how Grealish's confidence and ability could shine when he felt trusted and appreciated.

Everton will hope the winger can now enjoy a full season without the injury problems that disrupted his first campaign at the club.

And with Grealish back for another year, the Toffees have a player Coleman believes can make a significant difference – provided he can stay fit.

Coleman ended his 17-year association with Everton at the end of last season. The 37-year-old, who joined the club from Sligo Rovers for just £60,000 in 2009, racked up 435 appearances for the Merseyside club, scoring 28 goals to boot.

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