‘Worked wonders’ – Exclusive: Kevin Campbell delivers verdict on Jordan Pickford form
We’re delighted to welcome former Everton striker Kevin Campbell as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Goodison Park…
Kevin Campbell believes that Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to drop Jordan Pickford has worked wonders for the Everton goalkeeper.
Pickford looks to be back to his best after a strong performance against Burnley last time out in the Premier League.
Campbell believes that the arrival of competition for Pickford has also contributed to his upturn in form.
Speaking to Goodison news, Campbell said, “I think that dropping Pickford and having him come back after getting a little bit of respite can work wonders sometimes.
“I think he’s the number one at Everton but now he knows that there’s somebody waiting in the wings to take his spot if he messes up.
“Competition is never a bad thing and Pickford has responded and that’s what Ancelotti wanted.”
Robin Olsen started in place of Pickford when Everton travelled to St James’ Park to face Newcastle in early November.
Following the 2-1 loss to the Magpies, Pickford returned to the starting 11 and has steadily improved after his early season form saw him demoted to the bench.
The frequent errors that plagued Pickford’s early season form have yet to re-emerge since his promotion back to the starting 11 and we hope this is something that continues.
The Toffees need to be keeping clean sheets if they are to pick up points and with his defence currently under-performing, Pickford needs to be at his best.
He will no doubt be tested this weekend when Everton welcome Chelsea to Goodison Park with Frank Lampard’s side boasting an embarrassment of quality in their forward ranks.
Hopefully, Pickford can secure a vital clean sheet so that the Toffees can get another positive result after a run of poor form in the Premier League.
In other Everton news, the Toffees have reportedly made an enquiry into Barcelona’s Samuel Umtiti.