Jack Grealish misses Everton clash after splashing £20,000 on Christmas night out

Grealish was nowhere to be seen in Everton’s draw with Burnley. Explaining his absence, Moyes said: “He’s just got a bit of a virus – he’s not been well over Christmas time - so he’s not available today.” Without Grealish, Everton struggled in attack as the match ended 0-0.

However, reports last week revealed that Grealish had enjoyed a Christmas night out with friends following Everton’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal. The winger was seen in a VIP area at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park alongside former teammate Kyle Walker, before heading to Leicester Square with a large group.

Grealish and his friends reportedly left the venue at around 4am, with the final bill said to be £3,500. The player was seen leaving in good spirits, though sources insisted there were no inappropriate activities involved.

One source described the night out: “Jack wasn’t interested in any lap-dances, he just wanted more late-night drinks. Jack had a ball. He was the perfect gentleman and didn’t so much as look at any of the lap-dancers or striptease artists. He is in a loving relationship and this was just somewhere that was open for late-night drinks.

“Jack and the gang were in a back room ordering hundreds of £14 Jägerbombs, with girls dancing on tables and sofas. It was a seasonal blow-out that went on until the group was politely ushered out and returned to the Sanderson Hotel, where some ordered champagne to their rooms.”

Grealish has long been known for enjoying nightlife, dating back to his time before joining Manchester City. Now on loan at Everton, he has recorded two goals and four assists in 18 appearances this season. Reports suggest Everton could trigger a permanent move, with the player no longer considered part of Pep Guardiola’s long-term plans.

After missing the Burnley match, Grealish is expected to return for Everton’s final game of the year against Nottingham Forest. Everton currently sit 11th in the Premier League with 25 points, four behind seventh-placed Manchester United. Grealish remains a key figure in Moyes’ system, and the club will hope he can stay fit during the crucial phase of the season.