Jordan Pickford in action for England with Paul Robinson in circular inset
Jordan Pickford and Paul RobinsonImago

Everton star Jordan Pickford blows Paul Robinson away with 'excellent' quality in England win

Scott Mason

Correspondent AUTHORITY Sports journalist with experience at GamingINTEL and GRV Media; University of Wolverhampton graduate. FOCUS Data content, opinion, and general news coverage across the Breaking Media network. THE INSIGHT Scott utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, broad-spectrum reporting. He provides the data and opinion foundations behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

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Jordan Pickford does not often get the praise he deserves at Everton, but it is nothing compared to what he's used to for England.

Pickford is the Three Lions' undisputed number one, even if he occasionally comes in for criticism.

The Englishman proved to be an important asset against Croatia in his side's World Cup opener, despite likely being disappointed with the two goals he conceded.

But he followed that up with a clean sheet against Ghana and then a strong performance against Panama.

England's 2006 World Cup goalkeeper Paul Robinson is no stranger to what is required at this level.

And he could not help himself but point out what makes the 32-year-old such an excellent shot-stopper.

Why one Jordan Pickford save stood out more than anything else against Panama

Pickford was perhaps busier against Panama than he expected to be, but the English goalkeeper remained alert and ready.

The North American nation took the game to England with the Everton shot-stopper proving key.

In the 28th minute, Panama rushed through on goal, but the 32-year-old was quick to react to make a crucial stop.

Robinson, who has played for England at a World Cup, was left in awe of the save that the goalkeeper made for one particular reason.

Speaking via BBC Sport, he said: "It's a really good save from Pickford. His positioning is excellent, two or three yards off his line.

"He makes it look easy when it could have been difficult. It's a good left-footed strike from Rodriguez, too, but Pickford saves."

It was the sort of save that Everton fans have seen repeatedly over the years and it was a good showing of what he has to offer.

While Harry Kane may get the headlines for his goals, Pickford has proven time and time again he is just as important.

And that has been made even more clear as he nears a historic record.

Jordan Pickford in action for England with Paul Robinson in circular inset
Everton star Jordan Pickford hit with harshest England criticism yet, and it's simply not true

Pickford moves closer to England World Cup history

After featuring against Panama, that marked Pickford's 15 World Cup appearance for England.

In the all-time history books, he is not too far behind the Three Lions' record holder Peter Shilton.

The legendary goalkeeper has 17 to his name, meaning that Everton's number one simply needs to start the first two knockout games of the World Cup.

That quest has been made much easier with England's win against Panama.

They will now face Senegal in the round of 32 before a potential clash against Mexico in the round of 16 dependent on their result.

Overall, the Englishman could end the tournament as the all-time holder if a quarter-final appearance for the Three Lions arrives.

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