‘Fantastic team player’… Paul Merson reckons 28-year-old Man City ace could start v Burnley, after ‘stop-start season’

Redaction Simon Brett with Tom Procter
Published on 2024-01-29 20:00:00

Manchester City are set to face Burnley in the Premier League on Wednesday night, and according to Paul Merson, Jack Grealish could be in the starting lineup for the game.

City has had a strong start to the year, winning all three of their matches so far. In their recent 3-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup, the team displayed a strong and comfortable performance, instilling optimism among fans.

The return of key players and the team’s good form since the Club World Cup have contributed to this positive outlook.

Vincent Kompany’s Burnley will visit the City of Manchester Stadium on Wednesday, and Merson predicts that Grealish could play an important role in the game.

With the win over Spurs taking place last Friday, the players have had five days to recover, allowing manager Pep Guardiola an opportunity to make changes to the lineup.

However, Guardiola tends to maintain rhythm and stability in the team when things are going well. Despite being an unused substitute in the last two matches,

Merson believes that Grealish may figure prominently in the upcoming games.

He said (Sportskeeda): “Jack Grealish has had a bit of a stop-start season, but he works his socks off in the big games and is a fantastic team player, so I expect him to play a big role for City in the coming weeks.”

The left side of the field will be a point of interest in the upcoming game, with both Jeremy Doku and Grealish vying for playing time.

Doku recently returned from injury, while Grealish is in need of more game time. Another option that Guardiola might consider is Oscar Bobb.

Merson, who believes that City performs better with Grealish in the team, acknowledges that the English player is a superb team player, but notes his lack of goals and assists thus far this season.

If Grealish can improve in these areas, it will undoubtedly strengthen his case for a more regular spot in the starting lineup.

Merson anticipates a close battle for the left-sided position but highlights Grealish’s contributions, especially in big games. His work rate and team contributions are likely to make him a key player for City in the coming weeks.

As City prepares to face Burnley, all eyes will be on Guardiola’s lineup, with the possibility of Grealish earning a starting role in the upcoming fixture.

Read Original article on Manchester City News