SOCCER: Grealish's season over after undergoing foot surgery

Everton midfielder Jack Grealish has confirmed his season is over after undergoing surgery on a stress fracture in his foot, dealing a major blow to his hopes of making England’s squad for the World Cup.

The 30-year-old, on loan from Manchester City, suffered the injury during Everton’s 1-0 Premier League win against Aston Villa last month.

Grealish made 22 appearances in all competitions for Everton this season, scoring twice and providing six assists. His strong performances had raised hopes of a recall to the national team.

“Didn’t want the season to end like this but that’s football, gutted,” Grealish wrote on social media. “Surgery done and now all focus on getting back fit. I know for sure I will come back fitter, stronger and better than before.”

Grealish, who won three Premier League titles, the Champions League, and the FA Cup with Manchester City, last played for England in October 2024 under caretaker manager Lee Carsley.

The 2026 World Cup is set to take place from June 11 to July 19 across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

-Reporting by Karan Prashant Saxena in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford/Reuters