Former Liverpool and Manchester United striker, Michael Owen, has expressed his disapproval of the treatment meted out to Jack Grealish by Aston Villa fans during their 2-1 victory over Manchester City. The match saw Pep Guardiola's reigning champions suffer another defeat on away soil, with goals from Jhon Duran and Morgan Rogers.
The game was a difficult one for Guardiola and his team as they succumbed to their eleventh loss in twelve games across all competitions. Phil Foden managed to score a late consolation goal, but it did little to alleviate the situation as things went from bad to worse for the Catalan manager. Despite being one of football's most successful managers, Guardiola now finds his team sitting seventh in the Premier League standings.
Difficult return for Grealish
For Jack Grealish, who became one of the most expensive transfers in Premier League history when he moved from Villa to City in 2021 summer transfer window, it was an especially challenging day. Every time he touched the ball he was met with jeers from fans of his former club.
Grealish spent the early stages of his career at Aston Villa where he established himself as one of their best midfielders ever. However, upon returning to his old stomping ground after moving clubs last summer, he has often been greeted with taunts from home supporters.
Owen leaps to Grealish’s defence
Reacting strongly against this reception towards Grealish on Saturday afternoon was Michael Owen – Ballon d’Or winner in 2001 – who defended him vehemently. He stated that those who booed him should 'hang their heads in shame' considering all that Grealish contributed during his tenure at Aston Villa which spanned over 213 games.
Michael Owen, Liverpool legend, said:
“I often hear or see things in football that makes my blood boil. Of course, tarring a set of people with the same brush is not something I’m into. But to those Villa fans who booed Jack Grealish yesterday, you should hang your heads in shame.”
“Here is a lad that came through YOUR academy. Supported The Villa all his life and no doubt still does. He single-handedly dragged YOUR team back into the Premier League when you were average at best. He kept you up and in hindsight, showed you ten times more loyalty than you are now showing him. He was hardly ever injured and delivered Man of the Match performances on a regular basis. He cost you nothing, gave you incredible service and made YOUR club over £100m when he left.”
While rivalries and emotions run high in sports, it's important for fans to remember the contributions players have made to their clubs. The treatment of Grealish by some Aston Villa fans serves as a reminder that respect and appreciation for past services should always be maintained.
