WE NEED YOU TO BE ALL RIGHT, JACK

PEP GUARDIOLA has told Jack Grealish to convince him he deserves a regular place in Manchester City’s team for the business end of the season.

Grealish has struggled to find the form he showed when City lifted the Treble last year, with injuries and competition from Jeremy Doku hindering his hopes of a run in the side.

The England star has started only 19 of City’s 40 games in all competitions – and just seven out of 26 in the Premier League – but is set to be recalled at Luton in the Cup tonight.

“Hopefully, he can have the impact he had last season – it depends on him,” said the City manager (with Grealish, above). “He played lots of minutes last season and this season less.

“But he is the same player, has the same manager, and the way we play has not changed. Nothing has changed. It’s just the way he has performed. That’s the difference.

“We need him, he has a special quality for our team. Hopefully, he can do a good last three months.

“At this high level the team can’t wait for a player to get their rhythm.

“If it has been ups and downs for Jack this season, then why was it all the time ‘up’ last season? There has to be a reason. The players don’t have to convince me. They have to convince themselves they deserve to play.”

Grealish scored the winner when City came from behind to beat Luton 2-1 in the Premier League in December.

■ RISING City star Oscar Bobb, 20, has signed a new long-term deal. The exciting Norwegian attacking midfielder has agreed a contract that will keep him at the Etihad until 2029.