Everton forward Demarai Gray has appeared to aim a dig at Toffees boss Sean Dyche in a recent Instagram post.
The 27-year-old, who signed for Everton in the summer of 2021, has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League throughout the transfer window.
He was due to complete a move to Al Shabab last week, but Sky Sports reported that the deal was 'in jeopardy' due to changes at boardroom level. It was added, however, that another Saudi Pro League club had entered the race to sign him.
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Reports from Saudi Arabia are now claiming that Gray has passed a medical on Merseyside ahead of completing a move to Al Ettifaq, where he would be joining up with Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson.
But according to new reports, Everton have refused a transfer to the Saudi Pro League for the winger.
Gray played no part in Everton's pre-season as speculation surrounded his future, and he is yet to be named in a matchday squad since the campaign got underway.
After the Toffees' 2-2 draw with Sheffield United on Saturday, Dyche addressed Gray's future - indicating he would be reintegrated into the squad if a move to Saudi Arabia did not materialise.
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He stated (quotes via Liverpool Echo): "It was a bit of everything [why he hasn't been playing] - his fitness to play in the side, the situation around him and all of the noise.
"Hopefully over the next couple of weeks that will become clear and he will get himself fit as a starting point.
"I do [believe he will stay] at this time."
Taking to Instagram, Gray appeared to aim a dig at the Everton boss in response to his comments.
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He wrote: "Everton fans have always been great with me, but it's so difficult to play for someone who doesn't respect you as a person."
Gray can still leave Everton this month, however, with the Saudi Pro League transfer window remaining open until September 7.
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He may yet have played his last game at Goodison Park under Dyche - but it appears likely now that he will indeed stay put.
Topics: Everton, Sean Dyche, Premier League
Ryan Smart