Grealish issues public apology after mysterious Everton disciplinary breach

Jack Grealish has apologised for the behaviour which resulted in him being dropped from Everton's last three Premier League matches.

After being left out of the club's 3-1 win over Newcastle United in the League Cup and the following Premier League match against the Toon, which saw Everton win 1-0, David Moyes also did not include him in the squad for the Toffees' 3-1 win over Coventry City at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

However, Grealish has since been re-integrated into the squad. The club also decided to deploy him in a behind-closed doors friendly against Derby County; a clear sign they are in the process of forgiving his behaviour.

On an Instagram story, Grealish also issued a public apology on social media. He said: "Nice to be back out there with the boys today after a few good days training!

Make sure you don't miss sport's biggest stories and breaking news by making the Daily Mirror one of your Google preferred sources

Get our comprehensive football coverage, with news, updates, opinions, analysis and everything that matters to you, straight to your inbox.

To get it, it's a quick and easy one-two:

1. Head THIS WAY

"I want to apologise to the fans and everyone at the club for not being able to help the team the last few weeks. I love playing for this club and I can't wait to be back playing in front of you guys in an Everton shirt. See you all soon."

Everton confirmed Grealish's omission in a blunt statement on social media. After he was left out for the second match in a row, the club publicly said: "Jack Grealish is not match fit and therefore not part of tonight’s squad.”

Grealish had also missed the 2-0 away defeat to Arsenal through illness. A "breach of club discipline" and a lack of fitness were used as justifications for his absence for the next three matches.

Moyes refused to answer any questions about Grealish's absence when asked if he was going to play against Coventry. Instead, the ex-Manchester United manager said: "You probably know I'm not going to give any details. It's a club decision, it's something I don't want to speak too much about."

Last weekend, the Liverpool ECHO stated Grealish returned to training at the Toffees' Finch Farm HQ to undertake a tailored training programme. He played 90 minutes against Derby, which ended with Moyes' side emerging as 4-1 winners.

Gralish's Instagram apology came soon after the match. It's now possible he will be involved for the club after the international break.

Everton travel to Brentford on Monday, November 23 before hosting Liverpool in the Merseyside Derby on November 29. Grealish will also hope to be available when the Toffees visit his former side, Aston Villa, on December 2.

Grealish is on loan from Manchester City until the rest of the season, when his contract with City expires.