George Pickford sends two-word message after scenes away from Everton
George Pickford had an impressive start to life away from Everton on Saturday.
Everton were not in action because they were knocked out of the FA Cup by Sunderland in the previous round, but their Under-21s goalkeeper was playing.
Pickford joined National League North side Southport on loan for the rest of the campaign, and he was pivotal as they beat Hereford 5-1 at Haig Avenue on 14 February, just one day after the move was confirmed.
The Yellows are near the bottom of the table, and the Blues’ loanee will be crucial for their survival hopes.
What did Pickford say after Southport win?
Pickford seems to have already settled in with his new club, and he took to social media after the victory to share his feelings on the positive result.
He reposted Southport’s post with the scoreline onto his own Instagram story and sent a two-word message to his new supporters.
The 18-year-old commented “good start” with a yellow heart emoji.
Why Pickford loan is brilliant for all involved
The agreement is beneficial for all involved, more importantly, as Pickford gets the playing time at senior level that he needs to develop.
Neil Danns’ side gets a top-quality goalkeeper from the Premier League side’s ranks to help them survive in the sixth tier of English football, where they have had a tough season so far.
The Toffees have stuck a really clever clause in the deal, which will see their young stopper come back and train with them, still using the elite facilities that are available at Finch Farm and learn from England number one Jordan Pickford.
He is still a part of David Moyes‘ long-term plans, as he has signed a new contract before he left for his loan move, which should keep him on Merseyside until at least 2028.
He had notched six clean sheets in 22 Premier League 2 appearances, but learning from the rigours of first-team football at a difficult level is the better move for his career at this point, rather than playing youth football.
If he continues the way that he has started, it will be very profitable for himself, his loan club and the Blues, all parties are winners.
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