Michael Ball has raved about Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the wake of criticism coming after his display for England v Croatia, claiming he is easily the country’s best goalkeeper.
Pickford attracted criticism from many fans on Twitter during the Three Lions’ 2-1 win over Croatia on Sunday, with the Toffees stopper having a couple of dodgy moments between the sticks.
Ball has however slammed those who criticised Pickford for his display and highlighted how good the 24-year-old has been for the club this season.
In a column for the Liverpool Echo, he said: “Pickford has barely put a foot wrong since he’s been at the club, granted with England he’s got away with a few bits and bobs but he’s been so assured for his age. It looks like he’s been playing at that level for a long time and he’s easily England’s best goalkeeper.
“There’s obviously those Manchester United rumours now so it shows you, when those kind of talks happen, that his ability is so good. When you see people disregarding that quality , I don’t really get what the point is, to be honest.
“He’s got himself into the England team through some brilliant performances for Everton, he’s playing well for his country and he’s made that No. 1 jersey his own – by his work in training and his performances against the best teams in the world.”
OPINION
Ball is totally right in slamming those who criticised Pickford during the Croatia game, with the Everton goalkeeper putting in a solid overall performance. The only moment that sticks out as below par is when he slid out in the first half and the ball fell to a Croatia attacker, but there was not much else he could do after a dodgy back pass. The stopper was not to blame at all for the Croatia opening goal, with a wicked deflection seeing him unable to reach the ball as it nestled in the corner. Aside from that Pickford’s performance was good, with his distribution once again being a highlight. The way in which Pickford always tries to push his team forward and spring counter attacks is such a big asset for both club and country, as is the accuracy of his kicking. The criticism that he gets is unfair, and Everton fans will all know just how good he is, especially considering his age.