Liverpool, 10 February (H.S.): Everton midfielder Jack Grealish confirmed on Monday, February 9, 2026, that surgery for a stress fracture in his foot has prematurely terminated his 2025-26 campaign, delivering a seismic jolt to his aspirations for inclusion in England's FIFA World Cup squad this summer.

The 30-year-old, on season-long loan from Manchester City, incurred the ailment last month during Everton's 1-0 Premier League triumph over Aston Villa on January 18, 2026—his ex-club—where he featured prominently before scans revealed the severity.

Across all competitions, Grealish amassed 22 appearances, netting two goals and providing six assists, fueling speculation of a national team recall under coach Thomas Tuchel; his last England outing came October 2024 versus Greece (3-1 Nations League win) under interim Lee Carsley.

Posting from his hospital bed, Grealish lamented: I didn’t want the season to end like this, but that’s football. Gutted. Surgery done and now all focus on getting back fit. I know for sure I will come back fitter, stronger and better than before. He lauded Everton's staff, teammates, and fans, pledging full support for their top-10 push.

A Manchester City stalwart with three Premier League titles, a Champions League, and FA Cup, Grealish faces protracted rehabilitation ahead of the June 11–July 19, 2026, World Cup across Canada, Mexico, and the United States—rendering his Three Lions berth precarious.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar