So hard to fight this FEELING

COVID feels like another lifetime ago but for many football fans in this country the feeling of normality returning came at Euro 2020.

- By PAUL WHEELOCK

With supporters packing the stands once again, the feelgood factor nearly swept England all the way to the major silverware that has continued to elude them since 1966.

There were heroes everywhere you looked throughout Gareth Southgate's side - Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, of course, being one.

But perhaps no England player captured the imagination more, or attracted as much adulation, as the man who is now playing his club football alongside Pickford for the Blues.

Jack Grealish started only one game for the Three Lions at the delayed tournament, which had been put back a year because of the coronavirus pandemic, but that did not stop him from becoming the poster boy for the team and country.

It was partly because of his swashbuckling displays from the substitutes bench but also for his disarmingly honest interviews. Fan recognise themselves in Grealish.

Speaking after his arrival on to the Wembley pitch inspired the 2-0 last-16 win over Germany, the then Aston Villa talisman said: “It's unbelievable.

“It's obviously one of the best feelings ever when they're calling for your name.

“It's nice when Villa fans are doing it, but you kind of expect it because you are one of them.

“But when it’s England fans, it’s different.

“But it’s honestly an unbelievable feeling. I always try and play with a smile on my face because I’m doing what I love.