admin### Thierry Henry’s Rave Review: Everton’s Grealish Shines in Derby Defeat
In the cauldron of Anfield, where Merseyside derbies often ignite into unforgettable spectacles, Saturday’s clash between Liverpool and Everton delivered drama aplenty. Liverpool edged a hard-fought 2-1 victory on September 20, 2025, maintaining their perfect start to the Premier League season with goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike. Yet, amid the Reds’ dominance, it was an Everton performance that stole the spotlight—and the praise of one of football’s greatest, Thierry Henry.
The Arsenal legend, speaking on CBS Sports’ post-match analysis, reserved his highest compliments for Jack Grealish, the £100m loanee who’s become the Toffees’ talisman under David Moyes. “Grealish was a nightmare for Liverpool’s defense,” Henry enthused. “His dribbling, that close control—it’s pure class. He terrorized Conor Bradley all game, drawing fouls, creating chances. Even in a loss, he looked like the best player on the pitch. Reminds me of my younger self, gliding past markers with that swagger.”
Grealish’s display was a masterclass in wide play. The England international completed 12 dribbles—the most by any player in the match—and delivered a pinpoint assist for Everton’s late consolation goal, teeing up Iliman Ndiaye via Idrissa Gueye’s thunderous finish. Despite the jeers from the Kop every time he lost possession—a nod to his Manchester City past—Grealish’s energy was unrelenting. He covered 11.2 km, won seven free-kicks, and forced three saves from Alisson Becker. In a game where Everton sat deep, absorbing Liverpool’s 68% possession, Grealish was the outlet, the spark that kept the scoreline respectable and the away fans roaring.
Henry’s praise isn’t isolated. Pundits like Gary Neville echoed it on Sky Sports: “Grealish is dragging Everton forward single-handedly. Without him, this could’ve been a rout.” For Moyes, whose side now sits 14th after five games, it’s a lifeline. The Scot, post-match, beamed: “Jack’s our leader out there. He’s proving why we fought so hard to bring him home.”
This derby loss—Everton’s ninth straight at Anfield under Moyes, equaling Bobby Robson’s grim record—highlights their resilience. With financial woes lingering and points deductions a fresh memory, Grealish’s form offers hope. As Henry put it, “Talent like that wins derbies, even if the result doesn’t go your way.” Everton’s next test? A trip to Arsenal. If Grealish channels this Henry-esque flair, the Gunners might feel the Blues’ bite.
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