Very true - what initially seemed like just a sensible step down to ensure he got his career going may turn out to be an extremely smart move if they go up this season, which in turn could turn out well for the national team, especially as he plays at left-back, which has been such a difficult position for us in recent years. A successful step up to Championship level might make him an option for the next round of World Cup qualifiers (or possible even Euro 2016, if we qualify, although that may be overly optimistic). And there may be two other indirect effects to take into consideration:
1. Success for him, and also for Samir Carruthers at MK Dons, might influence the likes of Graham Burke and Michael Drennan to follow this path, rather than hanging in too long at Villa pushing for a breakthrough which may not be on the cards.
2. The possibility of playing international football alongside a few players who were his club teammates at youth level might put another tick in the Ireland column of Jack Grealish's decision. (or not)
Bookmarks