Jack Grealish's £500 Bet with Trent Alexander-Arnold: How a Free-Kick Sparked England's Victory

Jack Grealish owes Trent Alexander-Arnold £500 after the Liverpool star nailed a stunning free-kick during England's 3-1 Nations League win over Finland. 

The wager, made in jest, became reality when Alexander-Arnold’s strike from a set-piece hit the back of the net, helping England extend their lead after Grealish's first-half goal.

Grealish recounted the moment: “I joked, ‘If you score this, I’ll give you 500 quid,’ and he just put it in the top corner. Now, I owe him,” the Manchester City winger told ITV1.

Trent's crucial free-kick in the 74th minute gave England breathing room, with Declan Rice adding a third goal before Finland netted a late consolation. 

This result marked England's return to form after their shock loss to Greece.

Reflecting on the match, Grealish admitted that England had more opportunities: “We could’ve scored more, especially as the game opened up in the second half. 

It's frustrating to concede from a set-piece, but we needed the win, and I’m happy we got it.”

Grealish's return to the team after missing the Greece game due to injury proved vital. Declan Rice praised his teammate's skill, calling him “really special” and a player who relieves pressure from the team. “Watching Jack in training and games, he’s just incredible. 

He’s confident, happy, and that’s a huge boost for England,” Rice added.

Despite leading England to this victory, Lee Carsley's future as interim boss remains unclear. Carsley expressed hesitations about taking the role full-time, though the squad has responded well to his leadership. 

Declan Rice highlighted Carsley’s refreshing approach, saying, “He’s been honest, upfront, and wants us to play with freedom. The whole team is buying into his vision, and we’re enjoying our time under him.”

As England looks ahead to their next challenge, Jack Grealish and Trent Alexander-Arnold's light-hearted bet serves as a reminder of the camaraderie within the squad—a key ingredient to their success.

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