David James backs Pickford to lose England starting spot for Euros
Former England goalkeeper David James has backed Dean Henderson to start instead of Everton ‘keeper Jordan Pickford for the Three Lions this summer.
England are set to take part in Euro 2020 in June with the tournament pushed back from last summer due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Pickford is expected to be named in Gareth Southgate’s squad.
Southgate is expected to name Pickford in his 26-man squad on Tuesday next week, with Henderson and Burnley ‘keeper Nick Pope also likely to be selected.
Pickford has been Southgate’s undisputed first-choice for some time, however he lost his starting spot in the most recent international break after sustaining a rib injury for Everton.
Speaking to the Press Association (via BT), 53-cap James backed Manchester United’s young goalkeeper to swoop in as England’s starting choice for the tournament.
James said: “With regards who gets the number one position, it’s fascinating because Henderson has come in at Manchester United and now everything he does has come under scrutiny.
“But in my opinion, if he can be Manchester United’s number one then there’s no reason why he can’t be England’s number one.
“It’s the way he handles himself. I’d say ‘fearless’ would be the best word. If there’s a mis-judgement or error, he’ll continue doing what he knows he can do afterwards and not be frightened of it.”
“Gareth’s got to work this out. I’ve been in that situation as an England player, as number one or vying for it, and there are so many different things to take into consideration.
Deserves more praise
Pickford has never been the most consistent goalkeeper and there have certainly been times where his domestic form hasn’t warranted an automatic starting spot for England, however it would be very harsh if he lost his place this summer.
In the second half of the season for Everton, Pickford has been quietly excellent. He has barely put a glove wrong over the past several months and his acrobatics between the sticks have saved Everton on countless occasions.
Southgate used to pride himself on approaching team selection decisions pragmatically, choosing those in form and performing well over his own personal favourites, but he’s unfortunately let that standard slip over the past few years.
Pickford however has been ever-present for Southgate, making him a personal favourite choice of the England manager, and he’s been in excellent form for the Toffees.
Henderson has also enjoyed some personal success in his first season as a regular Manchester United player, and him starting for the Three Lions wouldn’t make England all that weaker. However Pickford deserves another shot, and we hope Southgate realises that.
In other Everton news, the Blues are in advanced talks over a mega-money sale of this player.
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