Manuel Neuer showers praise on Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford
England host Germany in the last-16 of the European Championship today, and Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has been tipped to play a starring role.
Bayern Munich legend Manuel Neuer will be hoping to stop the Three Lions from progressing, and has to be on top of his game against the English forwards.
The likes of Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane are raring to go, and while the German defenders have a huge job on their hands against England’s attacking threats, Neuer reckons Pickford could constitute a nuisance to their backline.
“Jordan Pickford is a great goalkeeper,” the veteran goalie said [ECHO].
“He can kick very long balls and this can be a threat to our defensive line. You have to stay very focused, especially deep.
“He talks a lot to his teammates in front of him. He’s very communicative, very fast and agile. I can only say positive things about him.”
No doubt about it
Manager Gareth Southgate is a fan of Pickford’s ability on the ball, and while building possession from the back is a huge part of England’s style of play, they do not hesitate to go long as at when due.
It is a weapon that can hurt any opposition if deployed well, and we expect the Everton star to maximise it today.
Pickford and Manchester City centre-back John Stones appeared to argue over long balls during England’s opener against Croatia [The Telegraph], with the former Toffees man preferring playing out from the back.
Both styles are useful, and the goalkeeper has to perfect his technique against the Germans to avoid losing possession carelessly.
Neuer identifies the threat his opposite number poses with his long kicks, and we are eagerly looking forward to the battle.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is another player who could be a huge threat to Germany’s defensive line, but whether Southgate has plans to hand him a second appearance at the Euros remains to be seen.
In other Everton news, Toffees want to sign highly-rated talent at cash-strapped club after 22 G+A last season.
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