Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs
England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has pleaded guilty to a charge of driving without due care or attention and now faces a court appearance at Chester Magistrates’ Court on December 7 (according to the BBC).
The incident happened on April 14 in the upmarket Cheshire town of Knutsford. Pickford, 32, reportedly ignored a give-way sign, which forced two cars to slam on their brakes. The Everton star then sped off into the distance.
Police are said to have pursued Pickford at 50mph in a 30 zone, with the shot-stopper eventually pulling over. He has now pleaded guilty and requested a court hearing to give his mitigation.
What Police Said About Pickford Incident
Paul Childs via Reuters
PC Cecil Ricardo from Cheshire Police claimed to have witnessed the incident involving Pickford’s blue Lamborghini Urus, according to court documents. He wrote:
PC Ricardo switched on his siren as he went in pursuit of the football star, when he noticed he was driving 50mph while Pickford's car 'was still pulling away'.
England manager Thomas Tuchel shakes hands with Jude Bellingham as he walks off the pitch after being substituted vs Norway
England manager Thomas Tuchel shakes hands with Jude Bellingham as he walks off the pitch after being substituted vs Norway
"The speed limit on that stretch of Toft Road, Knutsford, is 30mph," the officer confirmed. He then stated that Pickford eventually noticed the police car and pulled over.
Pickford told Warrington Magistrates Court: "I would like to attend court to put forward my mitigation." The court adjourned his case last week until his December hearing.
Pickford Risks Losing England Place
REUTERS/Paul Childs
Pickford, who has 92 caps, has been England's number one goalkeeper since the 2018 World Cup in Russia. However, James Trafford has started the season well at Leeds United and looks like he could provide strong competition going forward.
In the current international break, Trafford was given the games against Spain and Czechia, while Thomas Tuchel confirmed Pickford would be back for the Croatia and second Czechia matches.
Recently asked about the new competition he faces in goal, the 32-year-old said (per The Mirror): "The manager mentioned it as well, it got explained the night before the Spain game. He said it was a new competition, to also give Traff a couple of games. It was fine by me and it was like, ‘Right, now it’s time I need to go again’.
"It’s good for Traff. I’ve always said I’ve had good competition since I made my debut in 2017, I’ve always had that competition, and it’s about me improving, keep going, keep striving for me. I love nothing more than having competition."