Manchester City star withdraws from international duty due to injury

Jack Grealish has withdrawn from international duty with England due to an ongoing injury problem, it has been confirmed.

The 27-year-old was ruled out of Manchester City’s recent 5-1 Premier League victory over Fulham at the Etihad Stadium, with the club indicating that the forward had sustained a thigh problem that was understood not to be too serious.

Stand-in Manchester City head coach Juanma Lillo stated after the contest that it would be unlikely for Grealish to be fit in time for international duties with Gareth Southgate’s squad given the time available for necessary recovery.

Lillo told the media at the time, “It is difficult for Jack (Grealish) to make it for the (England) national team call up. I am not a doctor and it will be difficult for me to explain.”

Now, it has been confirmed by both Manchester City and England that Jack Grealish has been forced to withdraw from his duties under Gareth Southgate due to the same injury problem that ruled him out of action for the Premier League champions.

A statement from the England national team camp released on Monday night read, “Jack Grealish and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been ruled out of England’s September fixtures.”

The statement continued, “The pair reported to St. George’s Park on Monday but have since withdrawn from the Three Lions squad following checks on injuries sustained prior to camp.

“All other players are due as planned apart from Kieran Trippier who will arrive on Wednesday owing to a personal commitment.

“There are no further call ups planned as Gareth Southgate’s squad prepare for Saturday’s UEFA EURO 2024 against Ukraine in Wroclaw and Tuesday’s 150th Anniversary Heritage Match with Scotland in Glasgow.”

At this stage, it is currently unknown when Jack Grealish could make a return to action for Manchester City, who return to their own matchday schedule immediately after the international break with a trip to face West Ham in the Premier League.

September also sees the start of Manchester City’s UEFA Champions League defence as they host Red Star Belgrade at home in the group stage of the competition, whilst Newcastle United await at St. James’ Park in the third round of the Carabao Cup.