Jordan Pickford has received backing from two former England internationals after Thomas Tuchel gave James Trafford an opportunity in goal during the international break.
Pickford was left out of England’s starting XI against Spain and Czechia, with Trafford starting both matches. The decision inevitably raised questions over a position the Everton goalkeeper has made his own during almost nine years as an England international.
Kevin Phillips, however, remains firmly behind the 32-year-old, while Alan Smith also believes Trafford remains behind Pickford in the pecking order.
Phillips expects Pickford response
Speaking to BestBettingSites.co.uk, in comments carried by the Liverpool Echo, Phillips admitted he hadn’t expected Tuchel to make the change.
“I was a bit surprised he was dropped, if I’m being honest,” said the former Sunderland striker. “I don’t think Jordan would have taken it too well or been too happy, because he’s a winner, and I think he’s been fantastic.”
Phillips added that he had never criticised Pickford and believes the Everton goalkeeper remains England’s No.1.
Smith was less certain about whether Trafford is genuinely threatening Pickford’s position. The former Arsenal striker nevertheless still regards the Leeds goalkeeper as England’s second choice.
The debate comes as Pickford continues an excellent start to the Premier League season. As we reported earlier, he has kept three clean sheets in five league appearances and saved more than 83 per cent of the shots on target he has faced.
Pickford has also already collected another Premier League Save of the Month award this season, taking his career total to a competition-record five.
Tuchel’s decision to look at Trafford has introduced greater competition for the England shirt, but Phillips believes Pickford’s response should be straightforward: return to Everton and continue producing the performances that established him as his country’s long-term No.1.
His early-season form suggests he is doing precisely that.
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