Pickford involved in unseen interaction with Newcastle figure after Everton victory
Jordan Pickford did all he could to dent Newcastle United's Champions League hopes with a man-of-the-match performance for Everton.
The lifelong Sunderland supporter was on top form, pulling off a series of superb saves in the 1-0 win at St James' Park.
Understandably, the 31-year-old was on the end of anti-Sunderland chants throughout the contest.
After the game, Pickford was spotted speaking to a Newcastle figure, but it was not caught on the television cameras.
Pickford talks with Newcastle staff after Premier League clash
Everton have an admirable recent record against Newcastle and are now unbeaten in their last four meetings.
Much of that is due to Pickford, who always seems to conjure up something special against his old foes.
The England international did all he could to prevent the Magpies reaching the Champions League, but controversial events elsewhere meant that they qualified in fifth.
| Jordan Pickford's statistics v Newcastle United | Total |
| Saves | 6 |
| Punches | 3 |
| High claims | 4 |
| Saves inside the box | 3 |
| Accurate passes | 22/43 (51%) |
| Clearances | 4 |
Despite receiving a shedload of abuse, Pickford remained composed and even caught up with Toon staff after the game.
The goalkeeper shook hands with the Newcastle backroom team in an unseen moment before embracing long-serving staff member Craig Russell, according to Chronicle Live (26 May).
Russell had spells at both Sunderland and Manchester City as a player before taking up the role with the Magpies.
The pair looked in positive spirits despite being on opposite sides during the tense encounter.
Everton possess one of Premier League's best goalkeepers
Doubts have been raised over Pickford's England credentials over the years, but he has proved them emphatically wrong.
This season, the former Black Cat has pulled off the unlikeliest of saves to guide Everton to Premier League safety.
Despite the Toffees struggling for much of the campaign, Pickford has been consistent throughout.
His 12 league clean sheets were only bettered by Nottingham Forest's Matz Sels and Arsenal's David Raya.
Pickford has certainly assured his place as England's number one, with Dean Henderson arguably his closest challenger.
Next season, he can lead Everton into a new era as they move to their new home, the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
On current evidence, Pickford must be considered as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.