David Moyes backs Jack Grealish disciplinary decision after Everton beat Newcastle

Everton manager David Moyes has backed the club's decision to leave Jack Grealish out of their Carabao Cup squad against Newcastle United following a breach of discipline.

The Manchester City loanee was absent as Everton secured a 3-1 victory at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Thursday, progressing to the quarter-finals of the competition.

James Garner, Hayden Hackney and Thierno Barry scored for the Toffees, while Dan Burn grabbed a late consolation for Newcastle.

Everton confirmed before kick-off that Grealish was unavailable because of a "breach of club discipline", amid reports that he had missed a training session without permission.

Speaking after Everton's victory, Moyes made clear that the decision to exclude Grealish had been taken by the club and that he supported it.

"It's a club decision, so I support the decision," the Everton manager said.

Moyes declined to explain the circumstances behind the disciplinary action, directing further questions towards the club.

According to Sky Sports, Grealish had failed to attend a training session in the build-up to the Newcastle match.

Everton have not publicly confirmed that account or provided further details of the incident.

Moyes also emphasised the standards expected of his players, both on and off the pitch.

"The one thing about Everton and what they've got is they've got really good values behind it," he added.

The manager praised those who featured against Newcastle for their response and commitment during the cup victory.

Everton took a two-goal lead before half-time through Garner and Hackney, with Barry adding a third in the 69th minute.

Although Burn scored late on for Newcastle, the result secured Everton's place in the last eight.

Grealish's availability for Everton's upcoming Premier League meeting with Newcastle remains uncertain.

The England international missed Everton's previous league match against Arsenal through illness before being excluded from Thursday's cup tie.

Asked whether Grealish could return for Monday's fixture, Moyes refused to reveal his selection plans.

"I'd never give any team news away," he said.

Everton have not announced how long the disciplinary exclusion will last or whether further action will be taken.

That leaves Grealish's involvement in the league match unresolved, with the club yet to provide a further update.

Grealish returned to Everton for a second season-long loan from Manchester City on 1 September.

The former Aston Villa captain enjoyed a productive first spell at the club, recording two goals and six assists before a foot injury ended his campaign early.

He joined Manchester City from Villa in 2021 and won three Premier League titles, the FA Cup and the Champions League under Pep Guardiola.

However, his opportunities at the Etihad Stadium became limited, leading to his temporary move to Everton.

His current Manchester City contract is due to expire at the end of the 2026/27 season.

For now, Grealish's immediate focus will be on resolving the disciplinary situation and regaining his place in Moyes' matchday squad.

Everton, meanwhile, can look forward to a Carabao Cup quarter-final against Fleetwood Town after eliminating Newcastle.

Everton travel to Newcastle United for their Premier League meeting on Monday, 2 November, with Grealish's availability yet to be confirmed.

Moyes will need to decide whether to restore the winger to his matchday squad, although neither the manager nor the club has announced a timetable for his return.

Everton will also prepare for their Carabao Cup quarter-final against Fleetwood Town, with the date and kick-off time still to be confirmed.