Murphy question's Southgate over Grealish's absence

Jack Grealish was one of the highlights of the 2019/20 Premier League season with action-packed performances for Aston Villa.

Jack Grealish switched his allegiance from Ireland to England at an early age. The chance to play in elite competitions was not available with the Irish team and the Three Lions were an enticing prospect.

However, it seems the Aston Villa captain made the wrong decision. Despite performing for the Lions he has not been picked for the national team.

Gareth Southgate told him last year that he did not have Premier League experience. Now that he has impressed in English top-flight football, his absence is a cause of concern.

Grealish has hinted at his disappointment, while Danny Murphy has come in the support of the midfielder. The former Liverpool midfielder hailed the Villa man for his astute performances and believes only a couple of players are better than him in his position.

Murphy questioned Southgate’s conservative approach and shared that Grealish is a player who provides the Three Lions something other than ordinary.

Jack Grealish in the 19/20 Premier League [rank among English players]:

184 shot-creating actions [1st]
167 fouls suffered [1st]
91 chances created [1st]
79 passes into the box [2nd]
73 successful take-ons [3rd]
6 assists [=4th]

Snubbed. 🤔 pic.twitter.com/GTvhBKCuu4
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) August 25, 2020

“Grealish has the strength to play in there and the courage to take the ball under pressure anywhere on the pitch and get you up the field,” Murphy wrote in his Daily Mail column.

“He is unique in that respect among English players. You look at Harry Winks, James Ward-Prowse and Declan Rice. They are excellent players but they are very different from Grealish.

“It is a bit predictable that England choose the orthodox options. The misconception about Grealish is that people see him as just a dribbler. He’s not. He has a superb range of passing and can open teams up from this deeper position.

“I feel for Jack but he is determined. His time will come. He will get his chance. While it was disappointing to see him left out, it was exciting to see Kalvin Phillips selected. He has been exceptional for Leeds.”

Grealish has also received support from former manager Tim Sherwood. Sherwood made his England bow at the age of 30 and asked his former protege to have more patience.