World Cup

David Moyes backs Jordan Pickford for England role

By Jonny Whitfield, Reporter | 30 June 2018

David Moyes says that Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is England's best option between the sticks for the remainder of the World Cup.

David Moyes has said that Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is England's best option between the sticks for the remainder of the World Cup.

The Toffees stopper, who has played in all three of the Three Lions' matches so far in Russia, is expected to continue in goal for Tuesday's last-16 clash with Colombia.

Gareth Southgate has Nick Pope and Jack Butland as other options in the 23-man roster, but according to Moyes, Pickford should remain in goal.

"If you look at Jordan now, he's had full seasons at Sunderland and Everton," the former West Ham United manager said. "What he's not had is experience with England at major tournaments.

"He's not had the level of scrutiny that comes with playing for England. And, being a goalkeeper, you obviously come under even more scrutiny.

"But I always felt Jordan would go to the World Cup and the more I saw of his performances at Everton last season, I thought it would be hard for Gareth not to pick him as his No.1."

Pickford, who made his fifth England appearance in the 1-0 defeat to Belgium, earned 10 clean sheets in 38 Premier League appearances for Everton last term.