Everton keeper Jordan Pickford disrespect continues as media react to England win vs Panama

Everton star Jordan Pickford has been questioned despite keeping another clean sheet in England's 2-0 win over Panama.

The Blues ace started his third match of the World Cup and helped his nation progress as winners of Group L.

The Three Lions had underwhelmed against Ghana last time out, but goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane secured a comfortable victory.

Pickford has been subject to criticism away from Everton, despite his generally solid performances under Thomas Tuchel.

His distribution has been the main issue, with some observers believing that he is not good enough with the ball at his feet.

The national media have rated the England players' performances, including the 32-year-old.

How did the national media rate Jordan Pickford in Panama win?

Pickford's performance earned his positive reviews but his distribution came into question again.

He earned a seven out of 10 rating from The Independent, who said: “Came out to punch Michael Amir Murillo’s cross with conviction after a quiet opening quarter for the English keeper, but was alert to make a smart save when Panama burst forward down the left, denying Jose Luis Rodriguez at his near post.

"The odd questionable clearance but cleaned up when required. Had his clean sheet saved by the offside flag.”

The Toffees ace was handed a six from the The Guardian, who said: “Solid save to deny Jose Luis Rodriguez. Still doesn’t inspire confidence when he charges out of goal.”

The verdict from the BBC was also a six, saying: “A good save from a Jose Luis Rodriguez effort in the first half after the first hydration break. A couple of loose clearances, though.”

The Telegraph also gave him a six, saying: “Called into action in the first 10 seconds of the game when Panama attacked from the kick-off, also had to save from José Luis Rodríguez – known as “Puma” – at his near post. Was punching crosses well clear. Long periods where concentration was needed as England had possession.”

Why Pickford is still England's undisputed number one

The Hill Dickinson Stadium star has never put a foot wrong for his country.

It is a struggle to try and come up with a moment where he has cost his national on the biggest occasions.

He provides leadership at the back and a confidence when the ball comes towards his goal.

That is something which cannot be said for the other options in the squad, like Dean Henderson and James Trafford.

While his distribution is far from perfect, it is not a reason for him to lose his place in Tuchel's side, as he offers so much more valuable assets.

Indeed, the fact he was given such low ratings and criticised despite pulling off a good save to keep a clean sheet versus Panama is frankly disrespectful.

His experience at major tournaments, he has been the starter at three World Cups and two European Championships, means that he has a unique benefit over the other contenders for his spot.

He will likely still be England's starting goalkeeper when the next tournament comes around, but the focus for now will be trying to win this one.

Whether the Merseyside star and his teammates can do it, remains to be seen.