Jack Grealish has revealed his recovery from season-ending foot surgery is progressing excellently, with his surgeon expressing delight at the pace of his rehabilitation.
The 30-year-old England midfielder, currently on loan at Everton, underwent an operation on a stress fracture 10 weeks ago after sustaining the injury during a 1-0 victory against his former club Aston Villa in January.
"I feel really good in myself now. I had a 10-week Zoom call with the surgeon, who said it couldn't be looking any better at this stage," Grealish told BBC Sport. "So for me, it's happy days and so good to hear news like that."
Grealish has made 22 appearances across all competitions for Everton this season, scoring two goals and providing six assists. He admitted the injury layoff has been tough emotionally, particularly when attending the Merseyside derby.
"As a footballer it's always difficult being injured," he said. "I came to the Merseyside derby game and it got me a bit emotional, because it's something I miss doing so much."
With one year remaining on his Manchester City contract, Everton have been linked with a permanent move for Grealish should they negotiate a reduced fee from City's estimated £50 million valuation. Grealish praised the club's support during his recovery: "I can't thank them enough for the way they've been with me since I've been injured — they've been brilliant. From the staff, to the players, to the manager."
Off the pitch, Grealish has extended his role as principal ambassador for Special Olympics Great Britain, an organization providing sports training for individuals with intellectual disabilities. He recently hosted Special Olympics athletes who completed the London Marathon at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
"To have 10 of them run the London Marathon was incredible," said Grealish. "Years ago people might not have thought that would happen — it's unbelievable."
Special Olympics GB supports over 6,500 athletes, including those competing at Summer and Winter World Games. Grealish first took on the ambassadorial role in 2023 and has now extended it for three more years, citing personal connections: "My little sister has cerebral palsy — it's something that's close to me, it's something that I've always wanted to be involved in."