Carlo Ancelotti wasted no time in pouring praise over Everton’s decisive shot-stopper Jordan Pickford after a commanding display in yesterday’s 1-0 win over Ralph Hasenhuttl’s Southampton side.
Recording consecutive victories and clean sheets, recent wins over Liverpool and Southampton have left the Toffees just two points off fourth place, with Everton circling hungrily for European football next season.
Turthfully, Pickford had a relatively quiet game but showed excellent footwork and composure throughout the match – something Ancelotti was quick to note as he spoke to BBC Sport.
“Jordan Pickford did really well too”, noted the Italian tactician.
“When he was involved he did really well and was calm. He is now really calm in the goal and it was what he missed in the past.
“He has a lot of quality.”
Jannik Vestergaard’s late driven shot – Southampton’s first shot on target deep into the latter portions of the game – was parried excellently by the 26-year-old, who played conservatively and exhibited commendable discipline between the posts.
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Evertonians will be the first fans to admit that Pickford has not always excelled in terms of confidence-inspiring performances, but recent fixtures have left encouraging signs in their wake.
A European spot charge necessitates defensive solidity and the 26-year-old will need to be at his best if he is to provide such a bedrock of defensive confidence.
With West Brom coming up next, an Everton reunion with Sam Allardyce against the relegation-threatened Baggies could be a watershed moment to test if Ancelotti has truly brought consistency to Everton’s fortunes.
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