Jack Grealish once explained why he hates playing against Leeds United ahead of Everton debut

Add as preferred source on Google

The Premier League is almost back for Everton as the Toffees face Leeds United in an exciting opener on Monday night.

After all 18 other teams in the top flight have played their first fixture of the season, now David Moyes’ side are being put to the test.

Everton begin a run of five tricky opening games, as the Toffees haven’t been handed the best of starts, to say the least.

It’s not ideal for Moyes, but he’ll know his team have to play these clubs at some point with full attention on the clash at Elland Road.

Jack Grealish could debut versus Leeds, and although it could be the start of something special, the winger might not be looking forward to the game

• READ MORE: Everton have now been given a bargain to sign the next ‘Paul Pogba’

Everton’s Jack Grealish hated playing Leeds United because of getting fouled

There has been a notorious rivalry between the winger and the Whites, stemming from his Aston Villa days.

Grealish flourished the last time he played Leeds back in 2019 as he grabbed two assists, but it was a 2019 encounter at Elland Road which scarred him.

“It was the worst tackle I’ve ever had on me, even if it probably wasn’t even a foul,” Grealish said about a Liam Cooper foul on him to The Athletic.

“When I say the worst tackle, I mean… I’m just lucky I’ve got flexible ankles. I’m so lucky not to be seriously injured.

“He (Kalvin Phillips) told me after the game that all he wanted to do was stop me,” Grealish said. “It doesn’t bother me. I actually like getting kicked.”

“But, to be honest, I hated that Leeds game. For some reason, the fans hate me up there.”

It’s safe to say that if the 29-year-old does start on Monday, he won’t receive the most welcoming reception.

• READ MORE: Why Jordan Pickford will have to be wary for Everton vs Leeds United with new Premier League rule

Jack Grealish could have advantage for Everton against Leeds United with Jayden Bogle possibly out

Evertonians are eagerly awaiting seeing Grealish in the Royal Blue of Everton, but Leeds fans won’t make it easy for the winger.

It’s quite clear that the 29-year-old isn’t the most liked, and it will be up to Grealish to silence the doubters in West Yorkshire once again.

The Toffees have the chance to see their new recruit in action as Moyes saw Grealish as the Premier League’s ‘best’ once.

With his signing, the debate will be whether the 29-year-old plays on the left or if he lines up in the number ten role.

If he does play on the wing, Daniel Farke has confirmed that Jayden Bogle featuring will be a ‘late call’.

This could mean an early advantage comes Grealish’s way, with a back-up right-back likely to start, giving the Toffees’ new recruit the chance against a weaker opponent.

Moyes gave nothing away in terms of Grealish’s debut, as Evertonians will be eager to see his name on that teamsheet.