Jack’s back! Grealish takes step towards Everton return as he appears in behind-closed-doors game after missing two matches for skipping training without permission

Jack Grealish apologized to Everton supporters and teammates following a suspension for missing training without permission. The 31-year-old midfielder marked his return to action on Thursday by featuring for an Everton XI in a 4-1 behind-closed-doors friendly victory against Derby County at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, expressing his eagerness to play in front of fans again.

Manager David Moyes had previously dropped Grealish for games against Newcastle United and Coventry City due to the disciplinary breach. Grealish, who is currently on loan from Manchester City for a second spell, had not featured for Everton since October 17 before making his friendly appearance alongside goalscorers Charly Alcaraz, Jonathan Nsangou, and Christian Norgaard.