Credit: Imago

Cameron Smith

Sat 30 May 2026 12:10, UK

Jordan Pickford has been widely praised at the end of the Premier League season, following his stunning save against Newcastle earlier this year.

In what was a relatively under-par campaign by his own extremely high standards, the Everton goalkeeper still produced the moments of magic expected of him.

Since making the move from Sunderland in 2017, Pickford has been indispensable between the sticks, racking up 358 appearances for the Blues.

The Toffees missed out on a return to Europe this term after a dismal run at the end of the season.

But as they look to fight for continental places once again, Pickford’s importance remains undiminished, with the 32-year-old one of the key men for David Moyes to build around over the summer.

Jordan Pickford lauded as Premier League highlight moment vs Newcastle

Over the years, Pickford has remained dependable, and has recovered perfectly from all poor runs of form.

As a result, his spot at Everton remains secure, while he continues to represent his country as Thomas Tuchel’s number one.

At the end of February, Moyes’ Toffees would secure a fantastic 3-2 victory away at Newcastle – aiding them gain control in the race for European football.

With Thierno Barry netting in the 82nd minute, the visitors led into stoppage time, before Pickford was called upon for a moment of magic.

Managing to keep out a powerful effort from Sandro Tonali, the boyhood Sunderland man would deny his arch rivals in the dying moments, while the Blues picked up a big three points on the road.

As a result, the Toffees shotstopper has been rewarded with the Premier League Save of the Season award.

An amazing match-winning save for @Everton in the 94th minute 🧤

Jordan Pickford wins Coca-Cola save of the Season for his stop against Newcastle 👏 pic.twitter.com/qwD9KxFEXb

— Premier League (@premierleague) May 29, 2026

That weekend, the Blues would rise as high as eighth in the standings, a position that would have came with the reward of a spot in the Conference League.

In the end, the European charge would end up in smoke, marking the end of another underwhelming season for both the club and their shotstopper, who previously expressed his desire to play continental football.

How much longer can Jordan Pickford wait for Europe return?

At the time of his arrival in 2017, it would be hard to believe that less than a decade later, Everton would still not have returned to Europe.

In 2026, this is the unfortunate reality, with many of the current squad never sniffing a chance to play at the highest level.

Instead, many have been involved in relegation battles, while many could arguably not lace the boots of the side in and around Europe under Roberto Martinez and Ronald Koeman.

Throughout the absence, Pickford has continued to remain reliable for both club and country.

And the argument is there to be made that he does not receive the credit deserved as a result.

While 32 is not necessarily on the older side for a goalkeeper, he is no spring chicken and may still have desires of playing for a club fighting for the thrill of silverware, whether that be in England or overseas.

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