Grealish bites back at critics after being left OUT of City's CWC squad

Jack Grealish has bit back at critics on social media and defended his recent record after being left out of Manchester City's Club World Cup squad.

The latest stub will allow the 29-year-old and his representatives will instead be permitted to focus on finding him a move away from the Etihad Stadium, as he seeks to force himself into England’s World Cup plans.

Grealish started only seven times in what was a poor season for City by their own standards. While he has two years remaining on his £300,000-a-week contract, a repeat would do neither City nor the player any favours.

Following reports of the omission, accounts on social media were keen to voice their opinion on the former Aston Villa star's situation - with messages of support as well criticism directed his way.

Interestingly, Grealish took the opportunity to put his feelings on the record amid continued speculation over his future.

Responding to a post from talkSPORT which claimed that Villa favourite Gabby Agbonlahor is 'not happy' with Guardiola for unfairly treating Grealish, the winger wrote: 'What u want me to do score a [hat-trick] in 20 [minutes]?'

He also waded into a discussion between two users discussing his form for City this term.

'Dude, Jack has been bad lately and I'm not surprised Pep did that,' wrote one user on X. Another replied: 'Lately? Lol, been too long to be called lately. Let these people talk s***.'

The England international chimed in with a defense of his recent displays, adding: 'Haha, I've been bad lately? Score 3 goals in my last 3 appearances over 45 mins but okie dokie love x'.

Clubs in England and Europe are expected to be interested in the playmaker, although the fact that many are grappling with profit and sustainability issues may point to the likelihood of a loan deal, rather than a permanent move for a man who cost City £100m when he signed from Aston Villa for a British record fee in 2021.

After Grealish was left out of City’s final Premier League fixture at Fulham, Guardiola said that officials would work with Grealish and his representatives to find a solution that suited both sides.