- Pickford remains England’s No. 1 after nearly a decade of top-level service.
- Despite Trafford’s rising form, Hart believes Pickford’s starting spot is secure.
- Everton No. 1 focused on World Cup and achieving European qualification.
Jordan Pickford has been England’s number one for the best part of a decade. The Everton goalkeeper made his Three Lions debut in November 2017 and has since collected 82 caps, playing in four major tournaments. No England goalkeeper has made more appearances in major tournaments than the Toffees shot‑stopper.
But a new challenger has emerged. Manchester City’s James Trafford was sensational in the League Cup final against Arsenal and starred in the FA Cup quarter‑final against Liverpool. Some have wondered whether Pickford’s position could come under threat. Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart does not see it happening.
Hart: ‘It’s tough, but Jordan’s been so good’
Speaking on TNT Sport, Hart offered his verdict on the battle for the number one shirt.
“It’s tough,” Hart explained. “You know what, Jordan’s been so good and still only 32 years old. He’s been excellent in England shirt, brilliant for Everton.
“But that’s the thing. You know, I knew when I was playing for England that I was established. There’s so many good goalkeepers out there. Everyone wants your jersey. But again, like with this goalkeeper unit here, they’re working together. And then you’ve got to put the pressure on the manager, ultimately.”
Hart’s assessment is clear. Pickford has earned his place through years of outstanding performances, and his experience in major tournaments is invaluable. At 32, he is still relatively young for a goalkeeper and has plenty of years left at the highest level.
Pickford focuses on Everton and the World Cup
Jordan Pickford has been outstanding for Everton this season. He has the highest goals‑prevented metric in the Premier League and recently kept his 100th clean sheet for the club in the 3‑0 win over Chelsea. His form has been instrumental in Everton’s push for European football.
When asked about his England milestones, Pickford reflected on his journey. “Yeah, I think it just shows the hard work I put in,” he said. “I do my best for Everton week‑in, week‑out, and I’m always striving to improve. I’m only 32, which is young as a keeper, so I’m just striving to keep getting better. I wear the England shirt with immense pride and I think everyone in the country knows how much it means to me.”
He acknowledged that 100 caps is a target, but stressed the bigger picture. “There are goals but we know the main goal and it’s a team game. I’ve always said, I don’t even care if I concede four goals, as long as we win 5‑4. It’s a team game and I want to win matches.”
With the World Cup in America this summer, Pickford will be England’s number one. Trafford may push him in the future, but as Joe Hart made clear, the Everton man has earned the right to keep his jersey. For now, his focus remains on helping the Toffees secure European football.
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