Jack Grealish to play part in Dwight McNeil saga as Everton exit edges closer
The future of Dwight McNeil at Everton may hinge on that of Jack Grealish.
Everton secured a 2-1 victory away to Fulham on Saturday, though it was a decision made prior to the game that caught a lot of the attention.
After Dwight McNeil’s failed deadline day move to Crystal Palace, the 26-year-old was a notable omission from the Toffees’ matchday squad.
McNeil‘s partner spoke out on the disappointment of the collapsed move, which undoubtedly played a key role in his absence.
Dwight McNeil’s exit could hinge on Jack Grealish’s future
The reasons for McNeil’s omission from the Everton squad were obvious, and that again stems back to the frustration of his failed move.
However, his lack of minutes already this season has spoken volumes about where David Moyes sees him in his plans.
McNeil has started just seven times in the Premier League, with Harrison Armstrong even preferred to him on the right flank in recent weeks.
With Tyrique George, Iliman Ndiaye and Armstrong ahead of him, his inclusion in the squad next season may hinge on what happens with Grealish.
The Man City star remains of interest to the Toffees on a permanent deal in the summer, and presuming their buy option is triggered for George, his return would then push McNeil even further down the pecking order.
If the 26-year-old were to depart Hill Dickinson Stadium, it would likely be for a discounted fee, given the fact that he will have just one year left on his contract.
Everton already have another succession plan in place for Grealish
Given the impact he has had this season prior to his injury, Everton will love to bring Grealish back to Merseyside in the summer.
However, when taking into account his wages and the potential transfer fee, it remains to be seen how likely that is.
Everton have been linked with Harry Wilson, and with the Wales international due to leave Fulham when his contract expires at the end of the season, that is a deal that may be prioritised.
Either way, it feels like an almost certainty that McNeil will drop to fourth choice at best, meaning it will likely be a matter of months until he gets his move away from the Toffees.