Tim Sherwood has sent out a warning to Aston Villa youngster Jack Grealish and claimed that he needs to “knuckle down” next season.
The 21-year-old became a regular first-team starter at the club when Sherwood was in charge at Villa Park for the final months of the 2014-15 season.
Sherwood became Villa manager in February 2015 and he managed to steer the club clear of relegation that season and also guide them to their first FA Cup final in 15 years.
Although he failed to score a single goal in his breakthrough season, Grealish produced some outstanding performances in the latter stages of the campaign, including an assist in the FA Cup semi-victory against Liverpool at Wembley Stadium.
The youngster has failed to develop since that season and he has been criticised for his controversial behaviour off the pitch.
Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, Sherwood revealed that it is time for the youngster to step up to the plate and deliver on the pitch for the club next season.
“It’s a big year for all of those boys, especially Jack,” he said.
“Jack has to play week in, week out and has to really affect football matches.
“He needs to knuckle down. I’ve spoken to him a few times since I’ve left and I’m always on the end of the phone.
“We all know what Jack’s good at but somebody has got to tell him the things he isn’t good at and someone needs to tell him honestly about that.”
Although he struggled to produce consistent performances, the English forward still managed to contribute with five goals and five assists in 34 appearances in all competitions last season.
Grealish is currently away on international duty with the England Under-21 national team competing in the European Championships in Poland.