Jordan Pickford proving his menacing quality at half-time in Everton v Manchester United
It’s been an afternoon to remember so far for Everton’s key man Jordan Pickford in an action-packed first-half showing against Manchester United at Old Trafford with the Reds ahead at half-time.
In a first half which had been dominated by the hosts in Manchester, Everton and Sean Dyche will surely have the England number one to thank after some terrific saves to keep the Reds only one up so far.
The Toffees had been cut open on so many occasions during the first half with Ten Hag’s men regularly finding space in between the lines and beyond the Everton back-line to create goalscoring chances.
However, Pickford, who committed his future at Goodison Park in February [BBC Sport, 23 February], is so far coming up trumps for Everton and proving just how crucial he is to Dyche’s side as they battle to beat the Premier League drop.
The 28-year-old made some superb saves in that half, denying Rashford twice and Sabitzer in some key moments with Everton so often on the back foot.
As per SofaScore, Pickford picked up a brilliant half-time rating of 7.5, recording five saves from inside the box, and completing eight of his 14 long balls.
With the Toffees desperately looking to cause a stir at Old Trafford, Dyche will be thanking the England stopper for single-handedly proving the difference maker in a rather difficult half for Everton.
It’s true, the 28-year-old certainly won’t be short of offers from top overseas clubs if the worst-case scenario should occur, but that is the last thing on the Toffees’ minds right now.
After his first-half showing against Manchester United at Old Trafford, the club will be overly joyous their star man has chosen to remain for the long term. An incredibly gifted goalkeeper saving Everton right now and long may that continue.
More is now needed going forward.