Jack Grealish apologises to Everton fans after disciplinary absence, returns in behind-closed-doors win

Jack Grealish apologised to Everton supporters after missing recent matches following a "breach of club discipline" and returned to action on Thursday, featuring in a behind-closed-doors victory against Championship side Derby County.

The on-loan Manchester City midfielder missed two fixtures against Newcastle United — the Premier League and Carabao Cup ties — and Everton's win over Coventry before the international break because of the disciplinary matter. He posted an apology on social media, writing: "Nice to be back out there with the boys today after a good few days training." He added: "I want to apologise to the fans and everyone at the club for not being able to help the team the last few weeks." He finished the message with: "I love playing for this club and can't wait to be back playing in front of you guys in an Everton shirt. See you soon."

Grealish is on loan from Manchester City and is attempting to rebuild his career at Everton after falling out of favour at City despite costing the club £100m in 2021. The 31-year-old returned to Everton for a second loan spell this season.

Last season, Grealish scored twice in 22 games for Everton during a loan stint that was cut short by injury. That campaign was the first of his two spells with the club and included the goals and appearances referenced by Everton's staff and supporters.

This season he had made six appearances for Everton before the disciplinary issue emerged and is yet to provide a goal contribution for the club. Those limited minutes preceded the absence that saw him miss the Newcastle matches and the Coventry victory.

When asked before Everton's game against Coventry whether the international break might allow the club to resolve the situation with Grealish, manager David Moyes responded: "We just need to wait and see how things go." Grealish subsequently returned to play in the behind-closed-doors win over Derby County.

Grealish's social media apology concluded with his pledge to return to fans in person: "I love playing for this club and can't wait to be back playing in front of you guys in an Everton shirt. See you soon."