Peter Crouch raves about Everton star Jordan Pickford after World Cup selection
Peter Crouch has showered praise on Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford saying he has never let the team down in big tournaments for England.
Gareth Southgate has named his squad for the World Cup this week to be held in Qatar later this month, and two Everton players – Pickford and Conor Coady – have been selected.
Crouch doesn’t think that it would be a wise decision to experiment in a big tournament with “fresh and untried” options, and that’s why Pickford should start.
“Obviously, he went with Pope last time (for the 3-3 draw with Germany),” said Crouch to Express Sport.
“But I think Pickford’s experience in major tournaments, I think he’s definitely getting betterand I like it when he plays for England.
“It’s another case of you know, putting someone in you know, fresh and untried. Is it worth it?
“I don’t think he’s let anyone down at a major tournament and he’s got that experience which counts for a lot.
“So I think in the end, Southgate will stick with him.”
Outstanding
Pickford was one of the stand-out players for England during the Euros, and he is expected to start for England in the World Cup as well.
The Toffees struggled badly in the league last season and narrowly avoided relegation, and they have not made a strong start to this season as well. But, Pickford has been a symbol of consistency for his side.
The 28-year-old has been outstanding for the Toffees this season, and he is one of the major reasons why Everton do not concede enough goals.
Pickford’s distribution has been his biggest strength, but where he has really improved is keeping his focus throughout. Previously, Pickford often made blunders that were unacceptable, but now we hardly see errors from him.
The likes of Coady and James Tarkowski have been sensational for the club so far, but Pickford’s assured presence at the back gives extra confidence to the defenders.
Southgate doesn’t appear to be the kind of manager who loves to experiment on big tournaments, so Pickford’s position is more or less guaranteed.