Grealish pulls out of Ireland U21 squad as England still hovering

Jack Grealish has pulled out of Noel King’s Ireland U21 squad for Thursday’s friendly against Norway (6pm Irish time) — hours after England U21 boss Gareth Southgate confirmed he still wants the Aston Villa man to declare for the Three Lions.

Grealish, 19, withdrew from the Ireland squad to play in a Villa first-team match behind closed doors. He is also in contract negotiations with the club.

“I accept Jack’s reasons for withdrawing and understand it. I have no issue with it,” said King.