Jordan Pickford: From Everton Star to England's Backbone

Jordan Pickford hopes that his achievements with England will receive appreciation as he targets success at his fourth major tournament. The goalkeeper, who clinched Everton’s Player of the Season award for a third successive campaign in 2023-24, believes he still has room to improve. “I’ve now earned 61 caps. Off the pitch, I work diligently, and on the pitch, I strive to perform everything to the best of my ability,” Pickford stated ahead of England’s Euro 2024 opener against Serbia on Sunday. “At 30 years old, I continue to improve every day. If there’s anything I can learn, I want to keep striving to improve. That’s what motivates me.”

“This will be my fourth major tournament, and winning Everton’s Player of the Year for the last three seasons speaks volumes,” he added confidently. “I understand my game, and I’m constantly progressing. I hope my efforts are recognized and I aim for success in this tournament.” Since his England debut in November 2017, Jordan Pickford has cemented his position as Gareth Southgate’s number one goalkeeper, featuring in all 19 games England have played at major tournaments since then. Despite challenges from Aaron Ramsdale and Nick Pope, Pickford remains determined to retain his starting role.

“That drives me to improve. I have the jersey, and I’m committed to pushing forward. They have to keep up with me,” Pickford emphasized. “As I continue to develop, it raises the level of competition, which is beneficial for England’s goalkeeping situation right now. There are many talented goalkeepers.” In the 26-man England squad, Pickford is one of five senior players with over 50 caps. With Harry Maguire sidelined due to injury, 23-year-old Marc Guehi is likely to step into central defense. Pickford believes his experience can ease the transition for any young defender entering major tournament football.

“It’s straightforward,” Pickford remarked when discussing playing alongside new England teammates. “They’re here because of their talent. When they’re talented, I can assist and guide them because of my vision of the entire pitch and my effective communication. That’s where I excel. They understand their roles in front of me and together, we aim for success.”