Micah Richards urges Jack Grealish to step up for Man City

Micah Richards and Jamie Redknapp have urged Jack Grealish to regain his form as he starts his first match of the season for Manchester City against West Ham. Grealish's previous season was marred by injuries, which led to a decline in his performance and ultimately cost him his place in the England squad for Euro 2024. The competition for his position has intensified with the arrival of Brazilian player Savinho and the rise of Jeremy Doku, pushing Grealish down the pecking order at City. Richards emphasized that Grealish has the potential to excel, recalling his impactful performances during the treble-winning season. He noted that while Grealish was not outstanding last season, he still contributed significantly. The former Aston Villa star's statistics from last season, with only three goals and three assists in 36 appearances, reflect a disappointing campaign, prompting calls for him to play more freely and creatively. Redknapp echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for Grealish to embrace his natural playing style, which includes cutting inside and finding space, similar to his days at Aston Villa. Both pundits believe that Grealish's success hinges on his ability to play without restraint and to showcase the skills that made him a sought-after player. As Grealish aims to reclaim his spot and influence within the team, the pressure mounts for him to deliver performances that align with his previous best, especially with the high expectations at Manchester City.