Everton are looking to make the perfect start to the Premier League, but Jordan Pickford must avoid past antics.
David Moyes’ side face a gruelling test at Elland Road against Leeds United as the Toffees are hoping to grab a vital three points to kick off their season.
As a newly-promoted side, it’s expected to be a tricky atmosphere to play in front of, but Paul Merson has predicted an Everton win.
With the new additions of Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, this certainly gives the Blues reason to get off to the perfect start.
However, there is a threat that could hinder Everton’s chances, and that could come from Pickford in goal.
Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
Photo by Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images
Jordan Pickford has to avoid time-wasting for Everton vs Leeds United
The new Premier League campaign has introduced a new rule to the English top flight.
Once a goalkeeper has control of the ball, they have eight seconds to release it. If they fail to do so within the time limit, a corner kick will be awarded to the opposing team.
This has already been seen with Burnley’s Martin Dubravka from the opening weekend, and Evertonians will know Pickford is susceptible to the same.
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Pickford has been accused of time-wasting on many occasions, but the England number one must avoid the chance to give away a corner against Leeds.
This is due to Farke’s side using the strategy of set-pieces to their strength this season, as the Whites have signed players who have the height to pose a threat from set-plays.
Anton Stach 6ft 4
Sebastiaan Bornauw 6ft 3
Sean Longstaff 6ft 1
Lukas Nmecha 6ft
Leeds United’s new signings’ height that could be available vs Everton
Although Everton can combat this, with Jarrad Branthwaite out for six weeks, one of Moyes’ best chances of winning aerial battles isn’t available.
This should be a message to Pickford in avoiding time-wasting at all costs; otherwise, it might not bode well for the Toffees.
Jurgen Klopp has previously complained about Jordan Pickford’s time-wasting at Everton
The Whites have a clear plan to stay in the top flight this campaign, and Everton’s goalkeeper could gift them the perfect start.
Although it might be a game with the need for time-wasting, Moyes will know the referees will be watching Pickford with an eager eye, as Roy Keane hasn’t been a fan in the past.
Another who has expressed his frustration previously was former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp in a post-match interview, who spotted the 31-year-old taking his time in a 2-0 loss for Everton in 2022.
“We expected it [Everton’s tactics], but we didn’t react well. It’s difficult. Each ball Jordan Pickford has he takes five minutes, so we couldn’t gain rhythm, which you need to break down a low block. We expected them to do it.”
It’s a scenario that works against Moyes, as Everton might not be happy at the rule’s announcement.
But the Toffees must play the league’s game, and if they are going to win on Monday night, Pickford knows that he has to refrain from his habit.