A Premier League star dedicates a long-awaited goal to his late brother in an emotional return to the starting line-up.

Manchester City forward Jack Grealish scored in his side’s 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Leicester last night, marking his first Premier League goal in 16 months and his first league start since December.

The England international revealed that the occasion fell on the 25th anniversary of the passing of his younger brother, Keelan, who tragically died at just nine months old from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Speaking to the club’s official website, Grealish said: “This day is always a difficult one for my family, but I was delighted to get on the scoresheet. My mum and dad were here, and it is always a tough moment for us. So to score and secure the victory was brilliant.”

Grealish has struggled for consistent playing time this season due to competition from Jeremy Doku and Savinho.

All three were named in the starting line-up against the Foxes and combined to create Grealish’s opener just two minutes into the match. The victory at the Etihad Stadium lifted City back up to fourth place.

City manager Pep Guardiola praised Grealish’s character, saying: “Jack is an incredible person—generous and full of heart. I wasn’t aware of the anniversary, but I can only imagine how difficult it must have been for him. To share the moment with his mum, dad, sister, and the rest of his family makes it even more special. He scored a great goal and put in an excellent performance. I’m very happy for him. It’s never easy when you’re not playing regularly.”

Omar Marmoush doubled City’s lead after 29 minutes, and the hosts controlled the remainder of the game comfortably, edging an ineffective Leicester closer to relegation. The Foxes remain 12 points adrift of safety.

Guardiola acknowledged Leicester’s defensive approach, saying: “It wasn’t easy with ten men behind the ball in the box, and we missed a third goal to make things more comfortable. However, we defended well and didn’t concede until late on, so I’m pleased with the performance.”

The City boss also provided an update on Erling Haaland’s injury following the Norwegian’s ankle problem sustained during Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth. Haaland has since undergone specialist treatment with Dr Ramón Cugat in Barcelona. Guardiola confirmed: “He has been assessed, and we expect him to be out for five to six weeks.”

Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy admitted his side’s predicament is dire but remains determined to fight on. The Dutchman stated: “We are realistic. We know our situation in the table—12 points adrift with eight matches left. But, as I’ve said before, mathematically it’s not over, and we have a responsibility to keep going.”