Sean Dyche will be delighted at Jordan Pickford news from England camp
Sean Dyche will be delighted upon learning Everton number one Jordan Pickford will not start for England against Finland on Sunday (13 October).
The 30-year-old has been scrutinised for his role in the 2-1 loss against Greece at Wembley on Thursday (10 October) and interim England boss Lee Carsley has decided to select Dean Henderson in place of the Blues goalkeeper.
Dyche will be ecstatic with the decision, which all but confirms Pickford will return to Goodison Park unscathed from international duty after Iliman Ndiaye was seen limping off the pitch for Senegal.
Jordan Pickford must improve at Everton after England display
Pickford has raised concerns after his latest outing with England. The Everton shot-stopper looked a shadow of his usual self at Wembley in the loss to Greece.
Regardless of his international form, his axe is a blessing in disguise for Dyche, who will need Pickford fit and ready to face what will prove to be a pivotal period for his Toffees future after the international break.
Speculation surrounding Dyche’s long-term future at the club persists, and history proves there is no smoke without fire as former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho is touted for a sensational Premier League return to Goodison Park [Graeme Bailey].
The Blues have a torrid defensive record in the Premier League thus far, conceding 15 goals in seven matches, albeit they have been without defender Jarrad Branthwaite for most of the campaign. That said, Pickford needs to step up his game in the coming weeks.
His antics on the pitch at both Everton and England have endeared him to the fans, but the focus must be to leave the charismatic side off the pitch and work on keeping clean sheets to help his side avoid another relegation battle.
Pickford will undoubtedly feel begrudged with this latest England snub, but his club duties must take priority. Dyche will be relying on his goalkeeper now more than ever.
In other Everton news, the Blues face a decision on Beto as Juventus transfer news emerges.
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