Jordan Pickford insists he is “only getting better” as the Everton goalkeeper prepares to return to England’s starting XI against Croatia today.
Thomas Tuchel handed James Trafford the opening two matches of England’s Nations League campaign against Spain and Czechia, leaving Pickford on the bench for consecutive internationals.
The 32-year-old is due to return in Rijeka today, with England facing Croatia at 5pm. The Independent
Pickford has no plans to slow down
Pickford has been England’s established first-choice goalkeeper since before the 2018 World Cup, but Trafford’s opportunity has provided fresh competition for a position the Everton man has made his own.
Pickford, who has won 91 England caps since making his debut in November 2017, sees no reason why his international career should be approaching its final stages. VAVEL.com – Live Sports
“I’m 32 now, you see keepers playing still at 40, still playing at the highest level.”
He pointed to the longevity of goalkeepers such as Gianluigi Buffon and Manuel Neuer when discussing how much longer he could continue at the top level. His message about his own ambitions was clear.
“I’ll never stop until I stop. I’m not slowing down, I think I’m only getting better.”
Everton clearly enjoyed the message. Sharing Pickford’s comments on X, the club added simply: “We agree with JP1.”
Pickford also revealed he accepted Tuchel’s decision to give Trafford an opportunity and concentrated instead on being a positive influence around the England squad.
“It’s not normal for me,” he admitted of watching from the bench, but said his priority remained being a good team-mate and helping England win. The Independent
Trafford started both of England’s opening Nations League fixtures, a 3-2 defeat by Spain and Tuesday’s 2-0 victory away to Czechia. Tuchel’s plan was to give the Leeds goalkeeper those two games before bringing Pickford back into the side. Athlon Sports
For Everton, there is little ambiguity about where their loyalties lie.
Their No.1 returns to the England goal today with 91 caps behind him and, judging by his latest comments, no intention of surrendering the shirt without a fight.
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