Everton sanction George Pickford loan, but there’s a clever Finch Farm twist
Everton have confirmed that George Pickford will join National League North club Southport on loan for the rest of the season.
The Toffees Under-21s shot-stopper has also signed a new deal keeping him at Hill Dickinson Stadium until 2028, as per Everton’s announcement.
The 19-year-old has been in excellent form across the Premier League 2 campaign, with the goalkeeper notching six clean sheets in 22 appearances.
His total is the most across the youth division, with the prospect showing all of the potential to one day be a quality number one.
George Pickford reveals smart Everton agreement in loan move
Pickford’s loan is certain to help his development, as getting first-team minutes is an invaluable experience for such a young talent.
However, Pickford has revealed a key detail in his loan exit, and one that is a really smart move from Everton.
Speaking to the Merseyside club, he said: “I’ll still be training with the Everton first team while I’m there, so it’ll be really good for me to experience both parts of it.”
So, while the goalkeeper is getting playing time, he will also be sticking around and benefitting from the use of Premier League-quality facilities.
Additionally, he will be able to continue to learn from Jordan Pickford, who is of no relation to the academy player, and use that advice to further develop.
It may be an odd agreement, but it is one that has the best interests of Everton and the youth ‘keeper in mind, and it is quite clever from the Toffees.
When could Pickford make Southport debut?
Pickford could be in line to quickly make his debut for the Sandgrounders, as their next game takes place on Saturday, 14 February.
The Merseyside-based club take on Hereford at 3pm in their home ground, Haig Avenue.
However, if manager Neil Danns deems it too soon to throw Pickford into the mix, then the next chance comes just three days later on 17 February against Buxton.
Hopefully, the young goalkeeper can impress, and his loan move turns out to be a success for all involved.
Southport do find themselves in the bottom five of the National League North, and Pickford’s contributions could help them stay up.
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