Everton winger Jack Grealish apologized to fans on Thursday after appearing in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Derby County at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Grealish, 31, missed Everton’s previous four matches and had not played since October 17 due to a breach of club discipline. Ahead of Everton’s November 2 trip to Newcastle, the club described him as “not match-fit”—a characterization that did not reflect the disciplinary nature of his absence.
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Manager David Moyes has declined to discuss the incident. The friendly marks the strongest public sign yet that the issue has been resolved. According to his Instagram post, Grealish said he was pleased to train and play again with teammates, expressed regret for missing recent matches, and reaffirmed his commitment to Everton.
Grealish spent the first half of the 2025–26 season on loan at Everton before an injury ended that spell. He rejoined the club on another loan deal on transfer deadline day.
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