Jack Grealish came off the bench to score in England’s 6-2 win over Iran on Monday afternoon, tapping in from close range after being set up by Callum Wilson, but his celebration went viral after it was revealed to be a request from a supporter.
A previous video showed Grealish talking with a young fan named Finlay who asked him if he could do a celebration for him if he scores. The two were talking about cerebral palsy, as Finlay and Grealish’s sister both have the condition, so the celebration takes on new meaning after the fact.
Amos Murphy from the City Report podcast was full of praise for the 27-year-old, saying: “I think most people who have followed Jack Grealish for the last 18 months from a City persuasion will know he’s a fantastic human being. To see that cap off what was a superb football performance made me burst with pride.”
Grealish has made 16 appearances in all competitions for City this season, scoring just one goal without an assist. He’s not had the best overall campaign but had put in better performances prior to the World Cup and looked good for the Three Lions against Iran.
The 27-year-old will be delighted to have scored, not just so he can celebrate for Finlay, but because he’s missed the target so often this season. England lock horns with USA on Friday and it’s unlikely Grealish will start despite his impressive cameo, so he will have to be patient.
In other news, Pep Guardiola has made a decision on his future at Man City
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