Could one of Manchester City’s most important pieces return to the pitch tonight in the FA Cup holders fifth-round tie against Luton Town? Jack Grealish was an unused substitute during City’s 1-nil win over Bournemouth at the weekend. Pep Guardiola will be hoping to have Grealish back and firing as soon as possible.
The importance of the role that Jack Grealish plays is crucial to Pep Guardiola’s side. It was evident during last season’s treble-winning campaign and has been missed at times this season. At times this season, Manchester City have missed the control that the England international provides which is crucial to Pep Guardiola’s gameplan.
While Grealish has struggled with form at times and missed games with injury his role has fallen to Jeremy Doku and was filled by Matheus Nunes at the Vitality Stadium. While both are fine players they have a different skillset to the England international. Manchester City will be hoping to have Grealish on the pitch as soon as possible given the tough run of fixtures they have coming up.
Guardiola believes Grealish could start tonight at Kenilworth Road
Pep Guardiola was asked during his pre-game press conference if one of Manchester City’s most important players could feature against Luton Town tonight. He was hopeful that Grealish could start at Kenilworth Road. When asked about the possibility of Grealish starting tonight Guardiola said: “Yeah, it’s possible. Normally when we play Saturday to Tuesday, with the demanding schedule in the past. I don’t decide the line-up and everything and I’ll see in today’s training. Eyes, talking a little bit with them, the feeling to line up. Since then I don’t take a decision, never ever.”
Manchester City will be hoping to have Grealish back on the pitch as soon as possible. Tonight’s game could be the ideal setting for Grealish to begin to make a mark on this season.