Football BaBe
Wayne Rooney’s Witty Take on Jack Grealish Embracing Everton’s Legendary No. 18 Jersey
In a move that’s stirring excitement among football fans, Jack Grealish’s choice of the No. 18 shirt at Everton draws a humorous nod from Wayne Rooney, highlighting the jersey’s storied past and its potential to reignite careers.
Jack Grealish, the dynamic winger known for his flair, has stepped into a new chapter at Everton by selecting a squad number steeped in history. This decision not only links him to some of England‘s greatest talents but also sets the stage for a potential resurgence in his professional journey. As he prepares for his debut, the banter surrounding this choice adds a layer of intrigue to his transfer.
- Rooney responds to Grealish taking iconic No.18
- Points out another previous owner of the shirt at Everton
- Ex-Man City star eyes Leeds debut on Monday
Grealish’s Inspiration Behind Choosing Everton’s No. 18 Shirt
Traditionally linked to the No. 10 jersey during his spells at Manchester City and Aston Villa, Grealish opted for a different path at Everton. With the No. 10 already claimed by Iliman Ndiaye, he turned to No. 18, drawn by its association with legends he idolized in his youth.
In his own words, Grealish shared: “I picked number 18 for a specific purpose. While other options were available, my all-time favorite English stars, Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne, both sported it at this club. Once the transfer seemed imminent, I checked and saw it was open, making it my top choice from then on.”
The Storied Legacy of Everton’s No. 18
Rooney famously wore the No. 18 as a bold teenager, etching his name in history with a stunning goal against Arsenal that signaled his rise to stardom. Prior to that, Paul Gascoigne brought his unique flair to the shirt over two memorable seasons. Rooney also cheekily reminded everyone of another wearer, Phil Neville, who added his own chapter to its narrative during his time at Goodison Park.
Rooney’s Playful Reaction to Grealish’s Shirt Selection
The lighthearted exchange happened during a BBC Match of the Day segment, where the presenter informed Rooney of Grealish’s pick and mentioned a casual chat they had over Sunday lunch. Rooney, with a smile, responded in jest while offering genuine support.
“Sure, we touched on it lightly, joking about the No. 18 jersey,” Rooney confessed. “But let’s not forget, Phil Neville had his turn with it too! On a serious note, Jack is an outstanding talent, and this is a prime chance for him at a prestigious club with passionate supporters. He can step up as a key figure, help lift Everton in the standings, and aim to catch the eye of England’s manager, Thomas Tuchel, once more.”
Opportunities Ahead for Grealish at Everton
Grealish’s loan switch reportedly comes with a notable reduction in wages, reflecting his commitment to securing consistent playing time and revitalizing his form. The agreement features an option to buy, valued around £50 million, which could prove a smart investment for Everton should he excel.
Under manager David Moyes, Grealish is poised to become a central element in the team’s strategy, potentially boosting his morale and performance. Recent Premier League trends show that players like him, with 15 goals and 20 assists in the last three seasons across clubs, often thrive when given starring roles in supportive environments.
Upcoming Debut and Expectations
Fans are eager to see Grealish in action as Everton begins the 2025-26 season with an away fixture against Leeds United at Elland Road on Monday evening. This match could mark the start of a transformative period, blending his skills with Everton’s ambitions to climb the table.
