Fans React As Jack Grealish Starts For England Against Republic Of Ireland

England fans have reacted to the news that Jack Grealish will be starting against the Republic of Ireland in their Nations League clash.

The Manchester City star has been in the news during the build-up of Ireland vs England, after swapping his allegiances from Irish to English early in his career.

Between 2011-2017, Grealish made seven appearances for Ireland U17, six for the U18’s and another 6 for the U21’s – before making six appearances for England U21’s in 2016/17.

Declan Rice, who is also starting, played for Ireland during his youth career too and Harry Kane was asked about the reception he expects the duo to get at the Aviva Stadium.

The Bayern Munich striker said: “Everyone has their path to their career and theirs was a small part with Ireland and the rest of it with England so they are mature enough to deal with that.

“It’s going to be a tough game – the atmosphere will be tough. We are going into a place where we expect it to be a little bit hostile but that is no different to a lot of away games we face.

“My grandparents are Irish but the way my career went with the England youth teams and the 21s and the first team, Ireland wasn’t something that was really given much thought or even came across the desk.”

Grealish was left out of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, after a disappointing season with Manchester City – contributing to just four goals in 20 league appearances.

However, Lee Carsley has opted to start the 28-year-old against Ireland, handing Grealish his first starting spot for the Three Lions since November 2023.

Fans have reacted to the news, with some questioning why the Manchester City player is starting after playing just 91 minutes this season.

Fans React As Jack Grealish Starts For England Against Republic Of Ireland

This fan questioned why Grealish is starting over Eberechi Eze, who has been on fine form for Crystal Palace in 2024.

Grealish starting as a 20 for England , while Eze sits bench

Some things don't change

— Tribal Chief 🇿🇦 (@CHADO_K_) September 7, 2024

Another X user pointed out how staring both Rice and Grealish may cause a rather ‘hostile’ atmosphere at the Aviva Stadium.

Rice and Grealish both playing? I feel the atmosphere might be a shade hostile……….

— Justin O'Hanlon (@rpdarkhorse) September 7, 2024

And finally, this fan was extremely positive about the inclusion of Grealish and claims England may play some ‘decent football’ now.

Gordon, Grealish and Saka. Might actually be decent to watch for once

— Jonny Bravo (@JB_NUFC) September 7, 2024