Michael Ball gushes over ‘world-class’ Everton ace Jordan Pickford
Michael Ball has been left in awe of Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford after his “world-class” performance against Chelsea on Sunday [May 1].
England’s number one shot-stopper was instrumental in securing a 1-0 win for Frank Lampard’s side which gives them the opportunity to go above Leeds and Burnley should they win their game in hand.
Despite continuous media scrutiny, Ball branded the former Sunderland man “unbelievable” saying that the Toffees fans know how good he is.
He wrote in his Liverpool Echo column: “Jordan Pickford was unbelievable but he remains demanding of his team-mates for switching off. That’s what we’ve been lacking all season, you need to look after yourself but if somebody else isn’t on his toes, you need to tell him.
He added: “Given the position we’re in, we know we can’t dominate a game for 90 minutes and top-quality opponents will get in between the lines and hit the target but fortunately for us, Jordan was on fine form with at least three big saves – all of which were world-class.
“Afterwards, Frank Lampard referred to him as “England’s number one” rather than by name and it will be a boost for him as he’s had his critics, mostly from outside, even though Evertonians know how good he is.”
Number one.
That was some performance by Everton’s and England’s number one goalkeeper.
Pickford really shut his critics up with that fine performance and in truth, he has done that over the past month or so quietly going about his business – putting in some excellent performances along the way.
Lampard needs all of his key performers to hit their stride from now until the end of the season if they are to stay up and it is safe to say that the 28-year-old is leading by example.
Of course, there is an element of luck with goalkeeping which was proven with the ball striking him in the face rather than pulling off an excellent save but he earnt that luck by putting his body in the right place and being very brave.
The ball is now in the Blues’ court and they have to take advantage of their game in hand.
In other Everton news, Jordan and Jim White have locked horns over a majorly controversial Everton incident.
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