Gabby Agbonlahor says knowing Jack Grealish probably annoyed some people made his celebrating even sweeter.
The Manchester City star has enjoyed quite a heavy few days after partying away following their treble-winning success that culminated in the Champions League win.
4
4
Now back in action with the England squad, Grealish’s celebrations will be on pause until after Monday’s clash with North Macedonia, with that fixture being the last in a hectic season for the midfielder.
Celebrating success is what football all about and according to former Aston Villa teammate Agbonlahor, Grealish is in dreamland.
Asked for his highlight of the celebrations, Agbonlahor told talkSPORT: “Just seeing him enjoy [himself].
“You’ve done the work, played in multiple games this season, had the sleepless nights after games – people don’t see that part of it where you’re shattered, you’re dehydrated, you can’t eat after games, people don’t see the side of footballers where they’re putting the work in and how difficult it is to be a professional footballer.
“They’ve done and now it’s time to celebrate.
“The celebrations are on hold for England duty and they’ll continue after England duty because he’ll have more time off and it’s deserved.
“I just see a lad who is living the dream. He’s won the treble and he’s celebrating as he should do.”
Agbonlahor added: “He’s been consistent and that’s what Pep would have wanted, consistency. That’s what wins titles and wins Champions Leagues, cups and leagues and he’ll want to build on that next season.
4
4
“What has changed a lot about Jack is that during the season he might have a drink now and then but he’s sensible with it, he knows the right times to do it.
“He’s matured as a man. He’ll know that if he’s got a Champions League game midweek he’s not going to drink after a Premier League game, so he’s got the right balance now and Pep trusts him.
“I just love seeing the celebrations because there’s so many bitter people out there who it will really make angry and I love seeing how happy he is so I’m happy for the lad.”
Grealish will have a little holiday to recover from the gruelling season and Gabby is hoping to meet up when he’s back in Birmingham for a quieter drink.
“I thought I was a party animal,” he laughed, “but he’s overtaken me.
“He’s always been a party boy ever since he was legally allowed to start drinking. He’d be out with Callum Robinson and his teammates but when you’re doing what you’re doing on the pitch, no one can question you off it.
City begin their pre-season tour in South Korea in July and then are up first when the season begins in August, against Vincent Kompany’s Burnley.
“He’ll enjoy this now and next season he’ll want to win it all again. He’s hungry for success and I’m just happy for him and hope he can continue his form.”
