Jordan Pickford has already started the mind games ahead of Everton’s game on Sunday against Liverpool.
Everton head into the game at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on the back of a hard-fought draw against Brentford last weekend.
However, the Merseyside Derby has a lot riding on it, with a spot in the Champions League on the radar for both clubs.
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James Tarkowski of Everton celebrates after his goal stands following a VAR review as Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah of Liverpool look dejected during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Liverpool FC.
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For the first time in years, Everton may just have the upper hand heading into Sunday’s game, with Pickford noting Liverpool’s turbulent form.
Brentford v Everton - Premier League
Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images
Jordan Pickford kicks off Everton vs Liverpool mind games
Pickford is fully focused on securing European qualification for Everton, which may well require three points this weekend.
A win would take Everton to within two points of Liverpool.
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Predicted XI Everton vs Liverpool
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“We’ve got a big game against Liverpool – the reigning champions. They’re obviously not having the best of seasons this season, but they’re still a threat,” Pickford told the Everton website.
Liverpool have lost four of their last five heading into the game at the Hill Dickinson, which offers Everton a huge opportunity to secure bragging rights and three points.
“It’s a game we’re looking forward to,” he added.
“We’re taking each game as it comes and focusing on the next game we’ve got. That’s what the manager is telling us to do – just take each game as they come.”
Pickford is a player who Everton will have to rely on at the weekend, given the important role he has played all season.
Gary Neville has admitted Pickford has really impressed him following his early concerns about his erratic tendencies.
The 32-year-old is a player who should have no issues with the magnitude of Sunday’s game, with the England goalkeeper clearly ready for the challenge.
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