PICKFORD’S A LION CUB
Keeper Jordan still learning his craft says Moyes - the man who gave him his Premier League debut at Sunderland
JORDAN PICKFORD remains on a learning curve at the World Cup, according to the man who gave him his Premier League debut.
Pickford came in for criticism over Adnan Januzaj’s strike in Belgium’s 1-0 win over England, which consigned Gareth Southgate’s side to second place in Group G.
The Everton keeper was criticised for trying to save with his left hand rather than his right, while questions were also raised over his positioning.
But David Moyes, who gave Pickford his top-flight debut at Sunderland, is convinced the 24-year-old remains England’s best option in goal.
“If you look at Jordan now, he’s had full seasons at Sunderland and Everton,” said Moyes. “What he’s not had is experience with England at major tournaments.
“He’s not had the level of scrutiny that comes with playing for England.
“And, being a goalkeeper, you obviously come under even more scrutiny. But I always felt Jordan would go to the World Cup and the more I saw of his performances at Everton last season, I thought it would be hard for Gareth not to pick him as his No.1.”
Moyes gave Pickford his Premier League debut in January 2016, with the 24-yearold promoted to first-choice keeper early the following season after a serious injury to Vito Mannone. Pickford made a mistake which led to a goal in a 1-1 draw at Southampton but was “immaculate” thereafter, according to Moyes, sealing a £30million move to Everton the following summer.
“In that season, he made one mistake which, for a young keeper, was incredible,” said Moyes (with Pickford, right). “Apart from that, he was immaculate and saved Sunderland from far heavier defeats.
“He was exceptional. He made big saves, saves that probably weren’t expected. Until Jordan gets that experience we won’t know exactly where he is.
“But his distribution is very good and he’s a very good longkicker. I think his shorter stuff will improve with age and time.
“He’s got a really good temperament, he worked really hard and never wanted to be beaten.
“His stature could be something you could say, ‘Well he’s not 6ft 4in like a lot of other goalkeepers but he’s agile, quick in the goal and he makes good saves’.”
Moyes believes Pickford will return from Russia a more accomplished keeper and said going through tough times will improve him, citing the example of David De Gea at Manchester United.
“When Sir Alex Ferguson first signed De Gea, he continued to play him, even when he had some difficult times in games,” said Moyes.
“Now he’s up there with Manuel Neuer as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
“Jordan has a great career ahead of him and will benefit from the experience of playing at a World Cup and dealing with the pressures that come with that.”