Richard Keys hits out over Manchester City vs Everton controversy – ‘Nonsense’

Everton fell to a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City, but it was not without controversy.

David Moyes started Carlos Alcaraz on the right flank, with Kieran Dewsbury-Hall playing as the number 10.

Everton have a dismal record against Pep Guardiola’s side, failing to win in their last 17 matches against the Citizens.

The clash at the Etihad Stadium on 18 October was the subject of much debate, but not particularly due to anything that happened on the pitch.

Erling Haaland continued his brilliant record against Everton, striking twice to condemn them to a loss.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has a brilliant record vs Everton.
Credit: Imago

Richard Keys cannot believe Jack Grealish absence

Everton were without Jack Grealish for the contest, as he is not allowed to play against his parent club as per Premier League rules.

However, Richard Keys has hit out over those controversial rules, claiming that is “nonsense” that the 30-year-old cannot play in the fixture.

Speaking on BeIN SPORTS on 18 October, he said: “Jack Grealish unable to play today against his parent club, which I think is a nonsense.

Either stop loaning players between Premier League clubs, or accept that once you’ve got them then they’re used.

It impacts the rest of the competition because he can play against Arsenal and Liverpool but not Man City.”

Everton winger Jack Grealish celebrates against Wolves
Credit: Imago

Grealish absence is not a controversy

Everton knew that Grealish would miss this game, when they signed him, so it is not controversial at all.

The rule is in place to protect parent clubs from being haunted by a loan player, and also to keep the integrity of the game.

Keys’ argument is ridiculous; the rule has existed since 2004, and there have been no complaints about it.

Moyes and Co. signed Grealish, being fully aware that he could not play against City, so if it was such an issue, they would have avoided the deal.

It should not be made into something that it is not, and it should not be controversial at all, it is only because the Toffees ace is a big name, that it is even being brought up.

There are much bigger issues within the game, that need sorting out, this is not one of them.

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