Jordan Pickford extends England record as media unfairly label display away from Everton
Jordan Pickford has played 900 minutes for England without conceding a goal, but the media don’t seem to see his importance.
The Toffees will have been worried as Pickford appeared to be injured against Serbia on Thursday, as England cruised to a 2-0 victory in the World Cup qualifiers. However, he is thankfully okay.
Everton recently rewarded Pickford with a new contract, as the shot-stopper has been vital for the Toffees ever since he joined in 2017.
Jake O’Brien was immense for Republic of Ireland, as was Seamus Coleman, with both players being heavily praised.
But Pickford did not receive the same treatment from the English media.
English media not impressed by Jordan Pickford
Pickford’s last England goal conceded was Greece’s last-minute winner in a 2-1 upset victory at Wembley on 10 October 2024.
Everton‘s number one holds the record for the goalkeeper to play the most time for England without conceding a goal, ahead of Peter Shilton in second with 617 minutes.
- Pickford played the full game against Serbia
- He only faced one shot on target, and saved it
- Pickford has already kept eight clean sheets for club and country this season
Despite Pickford’s great history, some of the English media thought his performance was not very “meaningful”, making it out as if he had nothing to do.
The BBC were harsh on Pickford and claimed: “England’s number one did not have a meaningful save to make,” giving him a 6/10 rating.
The Mirror said: “Yet to concede in this campaign. Another comfortable night for England’s No1,” and gave Pickford another rating of 6/10.
The Telegraph also said: “Needed treatment on a thigh problem midway through the first half, but looked fine afterwards. Good save from Filip Kostic, one of the very few stops needed during the whole qualifying campaign.”
Fortunately, The Telegraph did spot Pickford’s important save, but even then, his contribution is still not being recognised.
Pickford’s commanding needs more praise
From the media’s reaction, it’s clear to see that people are comfortable with Pickford in goal, and may be taking the Everton ‘keeper for granted.
Pickford has always been great for both Everton and England, commanding his area fantastically.
England are playing against sides that want to qualify for the World Cup – albeit not Serbia – and players that want to give a good account of themselves on an international stage, but are still getting clean sheets.
| Team | Appearances |
| Everton | 330 |
| England | 81 |
It’s for that reason why Pickford’s vocal communication with his backline is now overlooked.
For many years, it’s felt like the media have just been waiting for Pickford to have a bad game, but Everton can be proud of his consistency.
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