Jordan Pickford and Alan Shearer
(Credit: Imago/BBC)
Rahul Lakhani
Mon 26 May 2025 7:48, UK
Everton recorded a superb 1-0 victory over Newcastle on the final day of the Premier League season, and it was particularly sweet for Jordan Pickford.
David Moyes’ side enjoyed a strong end to the season, with three consecutive victories to finish 13th.
Everton had nothing to play for as they headed to St James’ Park, with the Magpies chasing a Champions League spot, but they dug in to record a surprising win.
Carlos Alcaraz scored his second goal for the Toffees to break the deadlock, and Pickford’s excellent performance in goal has now earned him praise from Newcastle legend Alan Shearer.
Pickford has been praised for his display against Newcastle
Shearer praises Pickford after Everton beat Newcastle
Pickford had extra motivation against Newcastle as a boyhood Sunderland fan, and he stood firm in goal to deny the hosts on several occasions as he kept a clean sheet.
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Shearer has now praised the England star for his performance and pointed out how crucial he was in the victory for Everton.
Speaking live on Match of the Day, he said: “You’ve got to say well done to Everton all over the park, but particularly Pickford.
Stat Pickford
Appearances 38
Conceded 44
Clean sheets 12
Pickford in the Premier League this season
“When Newcastle did get through that defence, then he was the difference. Whether it was those legs or those particular saves, they just couldn’t find a way past him.”
Pickford was unbeatable in goal against Newcastle (Credit: Imago)
Pickford vital in Newcastle victory
Everton delivered a strong performance as a team, but Pickford was paramount to the victory as he was forced into making several excellent saves.
The 31-year-old made six saves overall, with an expected goals prevented value of 2.16, as per FOTMOB.
He also completed 16 long balls as Everton attempted to beat the Newcastle press, and he was imperious in the air as he made four high claims.
Everton were missing key centre-backs James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite, but Pickford remained resolute in their absence to keep his 12th clean sheet in what has been a strong individual season with the Toffees.
The England number one is already an iconic figure at Everton, and he now has 319 appearances to his name, while his fiery character has also made him an important leader within the squad.
Everton may not have won at Newcastle without an extra-motivated Pickford between the posts, but his performance did not deny his rivals Champions League football as they finished fifth regardless.
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