Jack Grealish and England candidate Eddie Howe’s relationship clear after cruel comment

Eddie Howe is in the frame to become the next England manager – and that will surely delight Jack Grealish, with both the Newcastle supremo and the overlooked England star holding each other in high regard.

Following Gareth Southgate's decision to vacate the role as England boss, speculation has been rife about his successor, with Howe emerging as a frontrunner among commentators, supporters and the bookies. Grealish, who found himself left out of the Euro 2024 squad by Southgate, could well be thrilled at the prospect of Howe stepping into the breach, given the Newcastle manager's previous commendations for the Manchester City ace.

The mutual admiration between Grealish and Howe started when Grealish lauded Howe as a "great manager". This rapport was further cemented when, after Grealish made a controversial comment about Newcastle's Miguel Almiron, Howe chose not to rebuke him but instead lavished praise on Grealish following a game between Newcastle and City, reports the Mirror.

Grealish reciprocated the respect for Howe and the Magpies in an interview before their encounter with Manchester City in 2022. "Eddie Howe came in and changed things," Grealish shared with reporters at the time.

"They have a great manager in Eddie Howe and they already have good players who can hurt you. They had a good window and they brought in good players. They're a threat now and in the future."

Grealish's cheeky dig at Almiron during City's 2022 title celebrations could have sparked fury from Magpies manager Eddie Howe. Grealish had quipped: "There were two secrets - one, Riyad (Mahrez), take him off the pitch, as soon as possible. He played like Almiron."

Despite the potential for backlash, Howe refrained from criticising Grealish and instead heaped praise on his own player, suggesting Almiron was unfazed by the remarks.

Grealish did issue an apology for his comments, but it was Howe's response that caught attention. Rather than stoking the flames, the Newcastle boss expressed admiration for Grealish's abilities, particularly after a Carabao Cup clash in September 2023 where Newcastle beat City 1-0 thanks to Alexander Isak's goal.

Howe, speaking to Sky Sports post-match, lauded Grealish, saying: "A very difficult opponent in Jack Grealish, who is an outstanding player. I thought defensively he was very, very good."

Whether Howe's admiration for the skilful winger's abilities and his preference for a robust defensive effort will be sufficient to reintegrate Grealish should he be selected for the top job remains to be seen. However, the ex-Villa player will be keeping a close eye on the selection process, possibly hoping that Howe might be the chosen one.

Graham Potter, Lee Carsley and Mauricio Pochettino are among the other contenders on The FA's shortlist.