Although it was Euro 2020 disappointment for Everton stars Jordan Pickford and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the former earned plaudits for a commendable performance.
The Three Lions conceded defeat in a nervy penalty shootout at the Euro 2020 final against Italy, losing 3-2 on penalties – though Pickford was far from disappointing.
The Everton shot-stopper stepped up to the mantle when called upon, making fine saves to deny Italians Andrea Belotti and Jorginho – with the later save keeping England’s hopes of a penalty victory alive, albeit briefly.
Twitter:
| FOCUS
Even though he ended up on the losing side, Jordan Pickford can be proud of his performance tonight:
… https://t.co/TrMYRU2qrA (@SofaScoreINT)
Calvert-Lewin has only played a bit-part role deputising for England captain Harry Kane at the tournament, though Pickford’s role has been anything but sporadic; Pickford has featured in every available minute for England at the tournament.
Keeping the most clean sheets of any goalkeeper at the tournament, a viral tweet from statistics source SofaScore highlighted just how commanding Pickford’s display in the final was.
Garnering an 8.2 rating overall, Pickford made five crucial saves – three of which came within the box – plus 24 accurate passes out of his 37.
Read Everton Verdict
Cutting a progressive, dynamic figure between the posts, Pickford’s ability to confidently play out of the back renders him as an unlikely cornerstone in England configurations.
With 52 touches of the ball, Pickford was adept at both passing to his back line and launching long balls over opposition lines with a view to igniting counter-attacks.
Pickford was an impeccable ambassador to the club throughout the tournament, and Rafa Benitez will surely be hoping to see more of the same from the Toffees shot-stopper.
Comments.
Loading comments…