Everton: Ian Wright changes mind on Jordan Pickford, Gary Neville not having it

Everton star Jordan Pickford has faced mixed reviews from Gary Neville and Ian Wright after England's win against Croatia.

The 32-year-old has been the go-to man between the sticks for the Three Lions since 2018.

He is now taking part in his third World Cup as Thomas Tuchel leads his side in North America.

Things started well with a 4-2 win on Wednesday in Dallas as goals from Harry Kane (two), Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford made the difference.

Getting underway with three points is a boost for England, but sparked questions about the defensive line.

Pickford has faced criticism for his showing, with Neville maintaining his frustration towards the keeper.

Gary Neville not backing down on Jordan Pickford frustration vs Croatia

There has long been a strange discourse surrounding the shot stopper despite his excellent performances for club and country.

He performs at a top level in the Premier League, but is often massively underrated amongst a wider audience.

That has prompted many to suggest that he could be replaced as England number one, but that hasn't happened.

Tuchel has stood by the ex-Sunderland man, but many believe that he was wrong to do so after his performance against Croatia.

Pickford may have done better with Martin Baturina's strike, but Wright stood up for the keeper on Friday's Stick to Football show.

He said: "I saw it again last night and I thought the way it came and the guy hit it, it came through players and he got his arm and it looks like he could have got more of an arm on it, but it came through too quickly."

Neville wasn't having it and maintained the opinion that England's number one should have saved the 36th-minute strike.

The Manchester United legend replied: "I think he should have saved the first goal. I think he will think that as well. He will definitely think he should have saved that first goal Wrighty.

"When a keeper has a full hand on the ball, almost, and it does that [bends backwards], they think they should save it."

How did Everton star Pickford perform for England vs Croatia?

Sometimes a keeper just comes up against some quality strikes that they can't do anything about.

It's fair to suggest that Pickford faced exactly that, especially while trying to get to grips with the new World Cup ball.

He did still manage to make three saves against Croatia, while also acting as sweeper twice.

Pickford continued to pressure off his backline regularly at Dallas Stadium as he completed two punches, two high claims and three clearances.

It appears that Neville forgot about all this for one moment where he's decided the keeper could have done better.

Wright and Roy Keane were quick to stand up for the 32-year-old, who deserves more respect on the international stage.