I can’t believe I’m saying this, but it seems to me that Jack Grealish’s move away from the Villa is beginning to look inevitable.
I’m looking at this from a fan’s, owner’s and indeed the player’s point of view, so let’s break it down.
The owners, even though they’re minted, still have to make the books look better come the winter.
I’ve previously stated that we should wait and maybe sell Grealish then, as it could work in our favour.
But there’s also the case that we could end up in a weaker position, if we’re struggling in the league.
So, selling Grealish might make sense if you’re being pragmatic and want to bring players in, in this window.
There’s still the backlash that they’d face from us fans, but would re-signing Snodgrass on loan compensate partly?
It might for some, but it wouldn’t for me, as much as I eventually liked Snoddy.
As for us fans, I’m sure we’d all be gutted if Jack left us now.
While I’ve seen some say that Grealish really ought to be playing for a Champions league side, do we really think that he’d walk into the Spurs first eleven?
How about Chelsea who supposedly are now interested? Would he walk in there?
I very much doubt it, myself.
My opinion says yes, he will be entitled to have a go in a top side.
But he isn’t yet proven enough at the top level and should go just another season with us, where he’ll be a better all round player.
Whatever you think of Bruce, there’s no doubt the lad came on leaps and bounds last season.
Think how he could continue to improve and how it might further his value.
Of course, there’s the risk that he might get seriously crocked in the Championship.
But better, more cynical Prem defenders leave him open to that risk too.
But I suppose he’d have the fat contract in the bag, if he does leave.
Which is what it’s all about, at the end of the day.
No doubt Jack’s advisors (his dad and brother?) have his interests at heart, while still being Villa fans.
Look, if someone said to you “work here at x amount for the next 4 years, or work here at twice the money for the next 4 years”, what would you do?
At my (bordering old age), I’d take double the money, even if the job was utter rubbish.
And I’m the loyal type.
While we’re talking massive numbers for top footballers, I still believe the same sort of thing applies.
As a footballer, you can get a career-threatening injury at a stroke.
So do you take £4 million over four years, or £8-12 million?
It’s a no-brainer.
I firmly believe Jack would have our blessing if he gave it another half a season and then decided to leave.
But as a Villa fan, I believe he should stay, to see how it goes.
Just for that 6 months.
After all, he’s still only 22 and there’s plenty of time.
But my guess is that his head has indeed been turned already.
I’ve no doubt there’s stuff going on in the background and I’d bet there’s a low-ball offer on the plate already, which the club have probably laughed off.
And said “let’s get serious”.
The part that concerns me, is that Jack hasn’t commented.
Of course, he can’t really be seen to be saying anything, but the lack of “we’re up for it” type comments tells me this is truly up in the air.
Jack, you’re one of us mate.
Give it just another 6 months.
Please.
Addendum;
How would we feel about a buy and loan back, for a season?
I’d suggest there’s legs in that.
