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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Jonathan Gorrie

Jack Grealish ‘playing with a smile’ again after breakthrough in ‘freedom and confidence’ at Manchester City

Jack Grealish is hitting form for Manchester City

(Picture: Manchester City FC via Getty Images)

Jack Grealish believes he is approaching his best form for Manchester City after an extended run in the team.

The England international has started City’s last four games across all competitions, slowly establishing himself as a key player in Pep Guardiola’s system.

While City’s strength in depth is obvious, Grealish scored against Wolves, received plaudits for his performance against Manchester United and was once again heavily involved as his team ran out 5-0 winners against FC Copenhagen in the Champions League on Wednesday night.

Clearly, Erling Haaland will dominate the headlines after scoring another brace and taking his tally up to a stunning 19 goals in 11 games for the club, though Grealish’s improvement is noteworthy given how much had been made of the 27-year-old’s form in his first season at the club following a £100m move from Aston Villa.

Speaking to BT Sport after Wednesday’s win, Grealish said: "I loved it. Playing in the Champions League at the Etihad is always great. Three wins out of three to top the group. It was a great night. I’m loving it.

"My last three or four games I feel back to myself. I am playing more with that freedom and confidence. It would help if I got on the scoresheet, I was desperate tonight, but it’s all about enjoying it and winning. When the luck isn’t with you...

"I’ve played a lot of games recently so I’m thankful to the manager for that. I’m playing with a smile on my face and feel like I’m settling in now."

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