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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Mia O'Hare

Nicola McLean defends Jack Grealish over 'ludicrous' criticism for drinking after win

Nicola McLean has defended footballer Jack Grealish as he faced "ludicrous" criticism for drinking after huge win.

The Manchester City star, 27, has been keeping fans entertained with his wild antics following his club winning the treble - the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup.

He appeared to enjoy one too many drinks over in Istanbul as he partied late into the night wearing his kit following the 1-0 victory on Saturday night.

The partying continued as Jack and his teammates flew to Ibiza before retuning to Manchester for their trophy parade, where he went viral for being drenched in champagne by team-mate Erling Haaland.

Yet Jack's partying hasn't gone down well with some as they criticised his consumption of alcohol.

Jack has faced criticism over his partying (@jackgrealish/Instagram)
He was soaked with champagne on the victory parade (City_Xtra/Twitter)

WAG and I'm A Celeb star Nicola has come to the defence of the footballing star, as she explained: "I find it so horrific that we're saying that Jack has to be a role model.

"First and foremost, did he ever say wanted to be one? No, he didn't. He's lived his dream of being a professional footballer.

“He's won the treble, it’s the best thing he could do in his club career. OK, if he goes on to win the World Cup with England, brilliant, let's all celebrate it but he's had a four-day holiday after working his socks off.

She told GB News: “He's not been able to drink for the whole season. He's at the peak of his fitness.

‌“In my view, you are not going to go out on a four-day bender, because you are celebrating winning the treble and become an alcoholic. It is completely ludicrous to say that."

Former footballer and I'm A Celebrity star Jimmy Bullard has also defended the young star after he checked in with Jack.

Nicola has defended Jack (Instagram/nicolamclean30)
Jack has been celebrating his club with the Champions League (UEFA via Getty Images)

Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “I texted him earlier saying ‘Look, Jack, I’m coming on talkSPORT etc. I love you, good luck, how’s your three trophies going?’

“He texted back ‘wow, I’m in a world of pain’. What a legend! Brilliant. I love the boy and he’s unbelievable for English football.”

Jimmy added: “I hope people don’t put him on a pedestal too much and then chop the legs off him.

“Let him be Jack, let him celebrate when he wants to celebrate. I just think do what you want Jack, he’s a young kid. You’ve got to realise how young they are. These are young football players who have got the world at their feet.”

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