SILVA: STILL A TOP PICK

JORDAN PICKFORD has been backed by Marco Silva to give Everton more “good moments” after his clanger in the Merseyside derby.

Pickford’s last-gasp howler (above) gifted Liverpool victory and Silva claims it is important everyone at the club rallies round the England No 1.

Pickford has played a key role in Everton’s improvement under Silva and made a crucial penalty save in their win over Crystal Palace in October.

He was lauded then and Silva is confident he will be Everton’s hero again.

He says Pickford has not shown any effects from Sunday’s shattering loss ahead of tonight’s clash with Newcastle.

“He’s been working normally with his team-mates,” said Silva. “We analysed the game on Monday, but that’s in the past now and we prepare for the next one.

“He’s a very good keeper and character. He has given us many good moments and he will keep giving us good moments.

“Now is the moment for him to feel the support of us all. When he saves a penalty, everyone is happy and he is fantastic.

“Now something happens that is not normal, he must look forward – not back.”

Silva said Everton’s positive display on Sunday proves they are improving and can compete with the top sides.

“I know the main thing is always the result,” he added. “But to achieve those good results against the strongest sides we have to work hard and work well.

“At the end, even when they were very sad at a result like Sunday, the fans understood what the players did.

“And, for sure, they will be with us again when we play Newcastle.”