Matt Grimes
CVC
Center Midfielder
Box-to-Box
Jul 15, 1995 (31)
Left
5'10"
154 lb
Sees drop in set-piece numbers
Grimes has been a consistent midfield option during the 2026/27 season, recording four shots, 17 crosses and two chances created over five starts.
Analysis: Grimes is an ever-present member of his side's midfield, but he has yet to score or assist, and has lost corner and free kick duties to Jack Rudoni in the last couple of games. The 31-year-old will continue to provide experience and ground duel strength in a central position, though he may not be very reliable for offensive contributions in upcoming action if he continues to focus on tackling and ball distribution.
Single shot in defeat
Grimes had one shot (zero on goal), two crosses (zero accurate) and one corner in Saturday's 1-0 loss against Manchester City.
Analysis: Grimes didn't really get much done during Saturday's loss. The midfielder couldn't get involved in the center of the park as City's quality just proved to be too much to handle for Grimes. This is one of the toughest matches on the schedule, so it should get easier from here for Grimes and co.
Delivers seven crosses
Grimes recorded one shot (zero on goal), seven crosses (one accurate) and four corners in Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Hull City.
Analysis: Grimes was heavily involved in Coventry's creative play, taking four corners and delivering a team-high seven crosses while also attempting one shot. Only one of his crosses was accurate, but his set-piece responsibilities give him a consistent route to creating opportunities. His passing range and ability to dictate possession from deeper areas should keep him central to Coventry's attacking structure throughout the campaign.
Three crosses Friday
Grimes had three crosses (zero accurate) and two corners in Friday's 3-0 loss against Arsenal.
Analysis: Grimes took three crosses during Friday's loss, but perhaps more importantly had a role on set-pieces, taking a pair of corners. Against the reigning champions that didn't mean much, but against teams that are more open, Grimes could have some upside with that role on set-pieces.
Captain in Sky Blues' midfield
Grimes ended the season as Coventry's most influential player, racking up 4,125 minutes, two goals and two assists across 46 starts for the Sky Blues, as he controlled games from deep throughout their title-winning campaign.
Analysis: Grimes is a former Swansea captain bringing composure, leadership and elite passing range to the base of Coventry's midfield, dictating tempo and he was the one providing a key assist for Liam Kitching in the comeback win over Middlesbrough. Grimes heads into the Premier League as the experienced leader of a promoted Coventry side, and his ability to control matches from deep will be tested against the best midfields in English football.
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