Legendary shot-stopper Peter Shilton crowns Jordan Pickford as England’s greatest goalkeeper since his own era, praising the Everton star’s maturity and vocal leadership on the international stage.
Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is once again the number one option for Thomas Tuchel's England side at the World Cup.
Pickford was a mainstay for England under Gareth Southgate, and Tuchel has kept him as his number one option between the sticks. The Everton goalkeeper has come under scrutiny from the media regularly during his career, but he's never let his country down.
Many have suggested that other goalkeepers should come into the side ahead of Pickford, but he's consistently remained the number one option. The questions surrounding Pickford should be about whether he's the best to wear the number one shirt in history, rather than whether he should be wearing it right now.
One goalkeeper who kept the number one shirt for many years, just like Pickford, is Peter Shilton. No player, outfielder or goalkeeper, has managed to reach his 125 caps for England, and he's now had his say on Everton's man.
Peter Shilton delivers Jordan Pickford verdict
Former England goalkeeper Shilton was asked where Pickford ranks in terms of all-time in his position for his country. The England legend puts Pickford up there as the best, despite David Seaman being close behind.
“I think he's probably up there. I would put him up there as the best. Obviously, David Seaman, he's very close. But I think, generally, looking at his overall situation, I think he's probably the best since I played.”
Seaman was one of the few mainstays in the England side for many years, but since he retired, many have struggled to nail down the starting role. The fact Pickford has remained as the number one speaks volumes, and it's not down to a lack of competition.
There's no doubt some of the goalkeepers pushing Pickford have struggled, but he's deserved to keep the shirt regardless.
Shilton discusses how he's been watching Pickford from a young lad coming through the ranks, praising how he's matured. The Everton goalkeeper is known for his outbursts on the pitch, regularly screaming at team-mates and keeping everyone in check.
“I've got a lot of respect for Jordan. I watched him from a young lad come through. I think he's matured. I like the way he's vocal. He has a go at the defence, but you can also see him encouraging and taking responsibility. I think that's a big part of it now."
Pickford's growth and maturing as a player and as a person have coincided with his performances going to another level. When the former Sunderland man first made the move to Everton, he struggled in the Premier League, but he's grown to become one of the Toffees' most important players.
Unfortunately for those who, for some reason, dislike Pickford, he's here to stay, whether that be with England or Everton.
