Jack Grealish reveals Wayne Rooney inspiration over Everton move as Man City loanee opens up on talks with Toffees legend

New Everton signing Grealish has revealed he spoke with former Toffees forward Rooney before making the loan move to Merseyside. The England attacker has joined David Moyes' side for the 2025-26 season after falling out of favour with Pep Guardiola at City and will hope a solid campaign can get him on the plane for the 2026 World Cup next summer.

Grealish had the chance to pick his shirt number and has now admitted he was drawn to No.18 because greats like Rooney and Paul Gascoigne previously wore it for the club. The 29-year-old previous donned No.10 at City and Aston Villa, but that jersey is currently held by Iliman Ndiaye.

Grealish told Everton's website: "There is a reason for [choosing number 18]. There were other numbers but my two favourite English players ever are Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne and I know they both wore number 18 here.

"So, as soon as I knew this deal was close, I had a look and number 18 was free, so that was perfect for me and it was the only number I was going to take from that point. I spoke to Wayne [Rooney] before I came here and I mentioned that to him - about the number 18 - so I hope he's happy as well!"

Everton confirmed their loan move for Grealish earlier on Tuesday, with the winger reportedly taking a pay cut to ensure the deal went through.

Grealish could get the chance to make his debut when the 2025-26 Premier League season kicks off this weekend. Everton are on last, visiting Leeds at Elland Road on Monday night.