Danny Murphy has claimed that one Manchester City player did not deserve to head to Euro 2024.
Considering the world will be rubbing their hands at the prospect of seeing some of the best in the business at the tournament, for a high-profile City player not to be in Germany is a shame.
However, international football can often be cutthroat.
Danny Murphy says Man City star did not deserve Euro 2024 spot
For instance, Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara was not selected by former Spain boss Luis Enrique in his squad for Euro 2020.
At the time, the former Bayern Munich technician was one of the best midfielders in Europe.
Ahead of Euro 2024, Jack Grealish was omitted from the final England squad for the tournament.
With the £300,000-a-week man being a massive name, his omission has divided opinion.
But Danny Murphy believes England boss Gareth Southgate made the right decision not to pick Jack Grealish for Euro 2024.
Murphy told the Daily Mail [page 103, 09/06/2024]: “When the real thing comes along and England need a goal at the Euros with 20 minutes to go, I’d rather see [Eberechi] Eze or [Ivan] Toney coming rather on [Jack] Grealish.”
“I’m a big admirer of Jack but you couldn’t opt for him now. He hasn’t scored in 2024 whereas Eze has eight goals. The Crystal Palace player can dribble past opponents like Grealish and has extra pace and confidence. Toney can poach a goal and is a penalty expert.”
Jack Grealish should have expected not to be picked
In our view, setting aside whether one sides with Danny Murphy or not, Jack Grealish should have expected not to be heading to Euro 2024.
The 28-year-old started just 10 games for Manchester City in the Premier League last season — meaning Gareth Southgate perhaps felt he did not merit a spot in his squad.
Moreover, it was reported in May that Grealish was not taking care of himself off the pitch in the best possible manner.
With the likes of Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze having brilliant seasons, they seem to have usurped him.
Considering Euro 2024 could be Gareth Southgate’s final tournament in charge of England, his desire to lead his nation to victory must be sky-high.
Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Jack Grealish should let his foot do the talking to the extent that his inclusion in England’s squad becomes unquestionable.