Neville Southall defends Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford

Neville Southall has voiced his support for Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford against an “incredible witch hunt” in the media.

Pickford has been the subject of intense scrutiny since he signed for Everton in 2017, and he came under considerable criticism this season following a few errors.

However, speaking on talkSPORT [26/06/21], Everton icon Southall defended the 27-year-old after the England goalkeeper recorded a hat-trick of shutouts in the Euro 2020 group stage.

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“I think there was an incredible witch hunt against Jordan Pickford throughout the season by the media, and I think it was totally uncalled for,” he said.

“I think it was absolutely disgraceful.

“As soon as you get an England shirt everyone absolutely hates you for some reason. I find that an incredibly stupid attitude.”

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There were times when it appeared Pickford’s talents were fading fast before our eyes after a series of high-profile errors that cost us.

Let’s not even reflect on that Anfield incident.

He’s had his fair share of mistakes this season, more so in the middle part of the campaign, but he came roaring back and was a rare bright spark during a miserable end to the season.

He’s now starring for England at a major tournament, and his goal ahs yet to be breached.

That should hopefully allow him some breathing space from his constant critics that yearn to jump on his every mistake.

It’s not completely subsided – Lee Dixon made some baffling remarks in the ITV commentary box during England’s win over the Czech Republic on Tuesday.

But Pickford does look to have turned a corner, and that’s promising news for Blues as it’s one less position to worry about in the transfer window.

In other Everton news, Neville Southall shares instant reaction to major Blues-Benitez update.

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