In his first month with the club Jack has brought the feelgood factor back to Everton

JACK GREALISH hosted a party on Saturday to celebrate his 30th birthday. He was in a good place according to one of his guests, Wayne Rooney.

- By JOE THOMAS

He had every reason to be happy. Wearing the royal blue number 18 shirt made famous by his close friend, the playmaker has had a special month.

Since joining Everton, Grealish has shown he may be the main character in two revival stories - his own and that of a storied club that has known only hardship in recent years.

After three wins and four assists, supporters have the unfamiliar feeling of having tasted victory before the first international break of a campaign.

Meanwhile, the architect of that success has taken the first steps on a pathway that could mean he spends the next interlude with Thomas Tuchel's England squad.

"Jack's a really kindhearted person and I don't think that comes across as much as it probably should," Rooney said on his BBC podcast, the Wayne Rooney Show.

"He's got a big heart, he's very respectful, and I think not playing at Manchester City, it was very difficult for him; I know it was.

"But going to Everton, he's at a club where he's going to get the time and space to enjoy his football and he's started very well and hopefully that continues. He is just getting back playing and enjoying his football, that is the main thing for him."