Jack Grealish Returns for Everton in Friendly Following Disciplinary Absence

Jack Grealish made his return to the pitch on Thursday, playing in Everton’s 4-1 behind-closed-doors victory against Derby County at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. The appearance marks his first action since being left out of the squad for last month's Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle United following a breach of club discipline.

During his absence, the Manchester City loanee also reported in sick for a 2-0 Premier League defeat at Arsenal and sat out subsequent league victories over Newcastle and Coventry City. According to reports, he was judged unfit for selection after missing several training sessions and matches, prompting the club to temporarily keep him away from the main training ground.

With several first-team regulars away on international duty, manager David Moyes utilized the friendly to integrate fringe players and academy prospects. Alongside Grealish, summer acquisition Christian Norgaard made a valuable appearance as he works his way back from an injury that has limited him to three substitute appearances this season. Norgaard found the net alongside Carlos Alcaraz and 16-year-old academy standout Jonathan Nsangou.

Grealish will now aim to force his way back into Moyes' matchday squad when Everton travel to face Brentford on November 23 as the Premier League resumes. The attacking midfielder has made five league appearances during his current loan stint without registering a goal or an assist.

What to watch next: Watch for Grealish to press for a spot in the traveling squad for Everton's November 23 fixture against Brentford.