An England international reminds everyone of his quality against West Ham

There were several outstanding performances from Manchester City players during their 3-1 win over West Ham. Erling Haaland stole the show with his hat trick. Mateo Kovacic and Rico Lewis were also dominant in midfield. But an England international also reminded everyone of his quality at the London Stadium. Jack Grealish looked to be back to his best during yesterday’s match. That is a positive for the champions going forward.

There was a surprise before yesterday’s game with dynamic winger Savinho ruled out of the game with a knee injury. His misfortune provided Grealish with an opportunity to start his first game of the season. The England international had a fine pre-season before injury ruled him out of City’s Community Shield win over Manchester United. It had taken three Premier League games for Grealish to get an opportunity to start for Pep Guardiola’s side. But when the opportunity was presented to Grealish he seized it with both hands yesterday.

It was evident from the beginning of yesterday’s game that Grealish was up for the game. He was heavily involved in the play as Manchester City dominated the first half after West Ham’s fast start. Most of City’s attacking threat came down their left-hand side. Grealish and Kevin De Bruyne were at the heart of City’s best-attacking moves in the first half. The pair alternated positions which seemed to confuse the West Ham defence. At times their combination play was almost unplayable. But the performance from Grealish was promising for what lies ahead for Manchester City this season.

At his best Grealish links up Manchester City’s attacking play. He is also integral to City’s ability to control games when he is at best. This attribute was on full display yesterday, especially in the first half. It was crucial to Manchester City’s second goal of the game which Erling Haaland expertly tucked away. It was a determined run from Grealish that set the well-worked move up. His run at the West Ham created the opening for City to exploit. A combination of passes between Bernardo Silva, Mateo Kovacic and Rico Lewis set up Haaland’s goal. But it was the run of Grealish that made the goal possible. That was the defining moment of the performance from the England international.

Yesterday’s performance from Jack Grealish was a reminder of his quality. He will have a pivotal role to play for Pep Guardiola’s side this season, especially when the fixture list ramps up. Based on his display yesterday the England international looks to be back to his best. If that proves to be the case it is a great sign for Manchester City and Jack Grealish.