Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford evidently has a strong connection to his boyhood club Sunderland, and now he’s just shared which team his son prefers.
Jordan Pickford returned to Sunderland on Monday night for the first time since leaving in 2017, and he received a positive ovation.
Pickford came through the academy ranks at the Black Cats and ended up making 35 appearances for the first team before Everton landed his signature for around £30m.
He’s still fondly thought of around Wearside, and the 31-year-old has been speaking about his family’s affection towards the club.
Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
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Jordan Pickford’s son prefers Everton over Sunderland
Speaking on the One on One podcast from Sky Sports, Pickford was asked who his son supports out of Everton and Sunderland.
Whilst the England international didn’t answer it directly, he appeared to suggest Everton, as that’s who his son watches more of.
Interviewer: “Is your son a Sunderland fan as much as an Everton fan? Or is it the fact his dad is in goal?”
Pickford replied: “It’s more what his dad does I think, but he knows how much I love Sunderland, so he’s Everton, England and Sunderland.”
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There’s always been talk of whether the Toffees shot-stopper could return to Sunderland one day, but those rumours were put to bed last month.
Pickford signed a new long-term contract at Everton, which is set to keep him at the club until he’s 35-years-old.
Jordan Pickford admits he is a Sunderland fan
Pickford spoke to the Sunderland Echo after the game on Monday and admitted that he remains a fan of the club.
“I’ve not spoken to my family yet. I’m a footballer for Everton Football Club. I’m a Sunderland fan. We’re here to win the game,” he explained.
“Looking at it all, I think it’s probably a fair result. I think we had chances in the first 30 minutes. We came out and got the Sunderland goal.”
Pickford continued: “Yeah, I was praying I got a good reception. I got one, and I think the Sunderland fans and Everton fans know how passionate I am as a player and as a lad.
“I grew up watching Sunderland come in the crazy corner, going to games. I gave that passion when I played for Sunderland.
“I’ve been at Everton for nine seasons and I think I’ve got a great relationship with both sets of fans. That’s just what type of lad I am, and I’ll never change who I am.”