Alan Shearer lauds Jordan Pickford after what he did away from Everton, Gary Lineker agrees
Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker were full of praise for Everton shot-stopper Jordan Pickford following England’s 3-0 win over Greece on Thursday.
The 30-year-old claimed his 72nd England cap during the clash at Olympiako Stadio Spyros Louis, keeping a clean sheet and even being handed the Man of the Match award by FotMob.
While the Three Lions eventually secured a comfortable 3-0 win through goals from Ollie Watkins, Curtis Jones and an Odisseas Vlachodimos own goal, Pickford was called upon on more than one occasion.
Speaking via The Rest is Football podcast [15 November], Shearer said: “I thought Pickford did really well as well, you know.
Lineker added: “Yes, two great saves,” before Shearer finished off by saying: “He pulled off two really important saves.”
Jordan Pickford impresses away from Everton
It has been a difficult campaign for everyone on the blue side of Merseyside so far, but especially for Pickford, who has picked the ball out the back of the net more times than he can count.
Sean Dyche’s defence has really struggled in the absence of Jarrad Branthwaite, though the youngster has clearly not been ready to return after suffering an injury over the summer.
However, despite his difficulties for the Toffees, he continues to prove himself on the international stage with England, and will likely get close to a century of caps for his nation before retiring.
Pickford has earned the respect of those around him over the years, becoming one of England’s most trustworthy stars, in friendly games or the important tournament finals.
When playing for the Three Lions, the ‘keeper is often a passenger when coming up against the easier teams but is always focused and ready to leap into action when called upon.
Dyche will be hoping that the same goalkeeper returns to Goodison Park ahead of a torrid set of Premier League fixtures over the Christmas period.
In other Everton news, a senior figure is surely heading for the Goodison Park exit doors if the Friedkin Group get their way.
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