Jack Grealish's verdict on Eddie Howe amid England links says it all

Reports of Eddie Howe being in the mix to take over the reins as England manager are likely to be well received by Manchester City winger Jack Grealish.

Both figures have previously exchanged public words of admiration, and with Howe tipped as a potential successor to Gareth Southgate, Grealish may welcome this change. Following the announcement of Southgate's departure from England, speculation has been rife about his replacement. One name in particular, Newcastle boss Howe, appears to have topped the list for pundits, fans and bookmakers alike.

Grealish, having previously been left out of the England squad by Southgate for Euro 2024, could be particularly pleased to hear of Howe's possible candidacy. With the current Newcastle forerunner having previously praised the Manchester City star, the respect appears to be mutual.

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Interestingly enough, their reciprocal praise dates back to when Grealish labelled Howe a "great manager". This rapport was further cemented when Grealish criticised Newcastle striker Miguel Almiron, and rather than denounce him, Howe heaped compliments on the midfielder after a game between Newcastle and City.

The $130million player also returned the favour during an unpublicised interview ahead of a matchup with Newcastle back in 2022. "Eddie Howe came in and changed things," said Grealish to international media, reminding them: "They have a great manager in Eddie Howe and they already have good players who can hurt you. They had a good window and they brought in good players. They're a threat now and in the future."

Grealish might have expected some backlash from Howe after his less-than-flattering comments about Newcastle's Almiron during Manchester City's title celebration last year. Grealish had quipped: "There were two secrets - one, Riyad (Mahrez), take him off the pitch, as soon as possible. He played like Almiron."

Despite the dig, Grealish later issued an apology, and rather than criticising him, Newcastle's manager chose to praise his own player, highlighting Almiron's resilience in the face of such remarks.

The potential for a feud was sidestepped by Howe, who instead expressed admiration for Grealish's abilities, particularly after Newcastle ousted City from the Carabao Cup with a 1-0 victory at St James' Park in September 2023, thanks to Alexander Isak's goal. The Magpies' gaffer, speaking on Sky Sports post-match, lauded Grealish, saying: "A very difficult opponent in Jack Grealish, who is an outstanding player. I thought defensively he was very, very good."

Whether Howe's admiration for the skilful winger's abilities and his preference for a strong defensive work rate will be enough to reintegrate Grealish into the squad, should he be appointed, remains to be seen. However, the ex-Villa player will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the managerial selection process, hoping that Howe might be the chosen one.