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Football

20th Apr 2015

British media were in awe of Jack Grealish’s “star performance” against Liverpool

If they didn't know before, they do now

Ben Kiely

Michael Cox – The Guardian:

While N’Zogbia played to the right, and was peripheral, the hugely impressive Grealish played with a fearlessness that deserted Liverpool and was crucial in encouraging Villa to play passes into the final third quickly – he varied his position intelligently and was happy to collect the ball in tight spaces.

Adam Hunter – The Guardian

In the absence of Agbonlahor, Grealish and Charles N’Zogbia complemented the power of Benteke with tireless, creative performances in attack. The 19-year-old Grealish in particular relished the occasion, driving at Emre Can throughout and posing a constant threat around the Liverpool area. No wonder the England Under-21 head coach, Gareth Southgate, is trying to test the youngster’s allegiance to the Republic of Ireland.

Henry Winter – The Telegraph:

Grealish provided the assist with a sangfroid that belied his teenaged years. Villa fans have long known about Grealish’s rich promise. Now the whole country knows. Roy Hodgson was watching, Gareth Southgate has already been to see Grealish at Bodymoor Heath, and the tug of war between England and the Republic of Ireland over the No 10 with No 40 on his back has moved up a gear.

John Percy – The Telegraph:

A star was born at Wembley, with the teenager producing a remarkable performance. Skilful but shrewd with his decision making, Grealish is undoubtedly one to watch.

Phil McNulty – BBC:

Villa had giants all over the pitch, particularly in the shape of Benteke and the gifted 19-year-old Jack Grealish, who played with a calm that belied his years in this hothouse atmosphere.

James Pearce – Liverpool Echo:

Grealish was outstanding, the 19-year-old Academy graduate totally unfazed by the stage he was performing on. In stark contrast the likes of Lazar Markovic and Alberto Moreno froze and played like they had the weight of the world on their shoulders.

Martin Samuel – The Daily Mail:

It was a toss-up between him and Fabian Delph for man of the match and when Grealish was replaced by Joe Cole with seven minutes to go, it was to a justified ovation.

Grealish had a hand in both goals and was the pick of the youth on display. Raheem Sterling, eyeing bigger fish than Liverpool, may wish to gather his focus. By comparison, he was anonymous.

Sam WallaceThe Independent:

In midfield, Grealish glided with the ball at his feet and demanded it from team-mates at all times. Despite not being over-blessed with pace or strength, this young man always seems to have time to spare on the ball.

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