Ireland's u21 player of the year was given his first Premier League start last night. Like it or not, that's quite a big deal.
Yes, every time anyone mentions Grealish it inevitably turns into an endless debate about his international future. But let's just look at the facts for the moment. A 19 year old potential Ireland star was handed his first Premier League start of a career that a lot is expected from.
Villa fans were highly critical of Paul Lambert for not giving Grealish more opportunities following an impressive loan spell at Notts County. Tim Sherwood has since arrived and Grealish has once again come to the fore. A number of substitute appearances raised expectations and Sherwood opted to throw the 19 year old in from the start in the crunch clash with QPR.
Grelaish completed 70 minutes before being substituted for Joe Cole in the thrilling 3-3 draw and opinion was divided about Grealish's performance.
In their 'Five talking points from Villa Park clash', Sky Sports were less than complimentary about the attacking midfielder.
After being expected to start wide, Sherwood opted to play the highly-rated prospect behind Gabby Agbonlahor and Cristian Benteke as a playmaker. The gamble failed to pay off though as he was subbed with 20 minutes remaining following a lightweight display.
However, some Villa fans took exception to that opinion.
@shelley_ozzy thought he was brilliant, he needs the ball though at his feet turn of pace great pass big future! Go down or stay up
— tom elt (@tim_elt) April 8, 2015
Last night-grealish looked good,Cole made a difference,gabby wanted to play,delph was everywhere,
And obviously tekkers!!!— VILLA!!! (@RavfcPete) April 8, 2015
Great game last nite. Watch out for Grealish. Terrific close control. Grt composure n vision. Don't wanna jinx him by likening him 2 barkley
— Vishwanath (@vishwanath1211) April 8, 2015
Having said that, there was quite a few dissenting voices among Villa Park fans as well.
@Paulmcgrath5 I couldn't believe Grealish got as long as he did #poor conceded 3 soft goals too!!
— Adam Green (@AdamGreenybum) April 8, 2015
Let's hope Grealish practices taking corners at BH tomorrow.Couldn't beat the first man on each occasion #avfc
— Ram (@Villa_til_i_die) April 7, 2015
@con_villa Agree but we had more corners today in the first half than we have had for a while. Cleverley's was better.Grealish was very weak — Ram (@Villa_til_i_die) April 7, 2015
So, not exactly a resounding success last night but the addendum that Grealish is still 19 is very important here. The fact that Sherwood was willing to start him in such an important game is testament to how highly he is regarded among those who see him day in, day out.
International future aside, last night's Premier League start is sure to be the first of many.
