Jack Grealish keeps promise to dedicate celebration to disabled child after goal

Jack Grealish kept his promise with a touching celebration as he scored England’s sixth and final goal in their group stage thrashing of Iran.

Grealish came off the bench for England as Gareth Southgate’s side held a comfortable 4-1 lead.

Marcus Rashford added a fifth shortly after with Grealish tapping into an empty net in the 90th minute following good work from Callum Wilson down the right. Grealish celebrated by going towards the corner flag before flapping his arms in the air with a huge smile on his face.

That’s exactly what the 27-year-old promised young Manchester City fan Finlay he would do a special kind of celebration at his request. Finlay, who has cerebral palsy, had exchanged some letters with Grealish earlier in the year before the City attacker surprised the 11-year-old with a visit.

Videos: Grealish keeps his promise with England celebration

Jack Grealish kept to his promise in doing a celebration for a young fan with cerebral palsy, huge respect. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/BPx8WCYJQ6

— PLClassics (@PLClassics) November 21, 2022

Finlay, 11, is Grealish’s biggest fan and got the opportunity to meet his hero in November, leading to a truly heartwarming video where the England star agreed to dedicate his next goal to the youngster.

The meeting had taken place after Finlay had sent Grealish a lovely letter expressing his gratitude for how the City midfielder treats people with disabilities just as he does everybody else.

Finaly, just like Grealish’s sister, Holly, has cerebral palsy.

And it could hardly have been more moving to see Grealish not only keeping his promise to Finlay, but doing so on the biggest stage of all as England crowned one of their greatest ever World Cup victories.

It was a beautiful reminder that football is more than just a sport and it’s truly wonderful to see how Grealish has helped to inspire disabled individuals who share a passion for the beautiful game.

When do England play next?

The Three Lions will continue their 2022 World Cup campaign on Friday November 25 at 19:00 (GMT) when they face the United States of America at the Al Bayt Stadium.

England will then round off their Group B campaign with an all-British clash against Wales on Tuesday November 29 at 19:00 (GMT) in the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium.