Jack Grealish likely to miss rest of season after surgery admission

Jack Grealish is likely to miss the remainder of the season after suffering a stress fracture in his foot, with Everton manager David Moyes admitting surgery is now the expected outcome.

The 30-year-old, on loan from Manchester City, picked up the injury during Everton’s 1-0 victory over Aston Villa on 18 January. While a final decision has not yet been signed off medically, the prognosis is bleak.

Speaking ahead of Everton’s Premier League trip to Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, Moyes offered a candid update on Grealish’s condition.

“We believe he’s probably going to need surgery,” Moyes said. “That’s still not absolutely confirmed, but it probably rules him out for the rest of the season, yes.

“It’s really disappointing for the player, and for the club, and all of us here. He’s such an important part, he’s a big character, big experience for us. We’ll miss him.”

The injury represents a major setback for both player and club at a crucial stage of the campaign.

After a frustrating period at Manchester City, Grealish had rediscovered form and freedom at Everton this season. His return of two goals and six assists from 22 appearances only partially reflects his influence, with Moyes repeatedly praising his creativity and leadership.

Having followed Everton’s performances closely in recent weeks, Grealish had become a central figure in their attacking build-up, often dictating tempo and chance creation.

That momentum has now been abruptly halted.

When asked whether Everton could consider Grealish’s long-term future given his positive spell on Merseyside, Moyes was clear that such discussions are premature.

“Far too early,” he said.

Any potential decisions on Grealish’s next steps are expected to wait until the full extent of the injury, surgery and recovery timeline is known.

Moyes also acknowledged that Everton continue to monitor the market ahead of the January deadline, but played down expectations of a late replacement.

“We’re out there looking,” he said. “It’s not that we’re shying away from it. I would say it’s probably less than likely than likely.

“In January you can find players, but this window is becoming quite a difficult one for a lot of teams.”

With Grealish sidelined and limited time remaining, Everton may be forced to rely on internal solutions.

Everton now await final medical confirmation on whether surgery is required, but planning is already under way for life without Grealish. Moyes must reshuffle his attacking options as the season enters a decisive phase, while Grealish faces a lengthy rehabilitation period that could stretch into the summer.

How big a blow is Jack Grealish’s injury to Everton’s momentum — and can Moyes find answers from within the squad?