Loyal Grealish staying in the green zone

As Jack Grealish awoke at his family home in Solihull yesterday morning, he was oblivious to the conversation progressing from the topic of his dazzling display at Wembley on Sunday onto which country he’ll represent at senior level.

The 19-year-old remains Ireland’s player to lose. Having represented the country of his grandparents for the past five years up to U21 level, the hype machine escalating from his showing against Liverpool won’t deter a teenager blessed with his conviction.

England are, and always have been, on the prowl to secure the allegiance of a player born and raised in Birmingham.