Everton: Jordan Pickford has mixed bag in England World Cup opener despite 'instrumental' role
Everton's Jordan Pickford has begun his 2026 World Cup campaign with a 4-2 win against Croatia.
The goalkeeper has been a mainstay in the England set-up ever since 2018, and he remains one of the first names on the teamsheet.
As he opened the tournament, the 32-year-old would have been hoping to keep as many clean sheets as possible.
However, it was not to be for Pickford, despite him being hailed for a key role in Thomas Tuchel's tactics as Croatia struck twice.
In the end, the shot-stopper has likely come away frustrated from the match in Dallas.
Despite, England picking up the three points to begin Group L.
How was Jordan Pickford key for England vs Croatia?
While Pickford is often praised for his shot-stopping qualities, on this occasion it was his role on the ball that received acclaim from Emma Hayes.
Distribution is not often the goalkeeper's strongest attribute, but against Croatia, it was vital to England's plans.
Speaking on ITV's coverage during the first hydration break, Hayes pointed out the key role that the Everton man had to play in build-up.
She said: "There has been two or three moments where England have solved pressure. They're attracting pressure, a little short-angled balls to solve it.
"And this is an example of a little bit more control from England, something we have not seen enough of. But Pickford is instrumental to that."
When England had the ball at the back, Pickford routinely offered himself up as a passing option, and it allowed the Three Lions to get out of their half with much more ease.
In the end, that control allowed England to go out and score three goals, even if Pickford conceded two in his own net.
Why Pickford will be frustrated with his overall performance
Pickford was rightfully praised for the role he played at helping get England out of pressure, but his usual tasks of making saves was far from routine.
While Croatia's first goal was a thunderous strike, the Everton man did end up getting a hand to it, with Paul Robinson sharing via BBC Sport that "he will be disappointed."
Throughout the match, Pickford faced five shots on goal with two of them going in. He ended with a negative goals prevented of 1.41 as per FotMob.
It was far from a performance that has typically been expected from him for his country.
Nonetheless, Everton fans know fine well he can dust himself off, and he will undoubtedly bounce back from this mixed performance as England continue their venture in North America.