Jordan Pickford was back in goal against Greece and posted one of his best performances in an England shirt for some time – after being axed for the team’s last game against Finland
If he needed to, Jordan Pickford reminded Thomas Tuchel – assuming he was watching from afar – why he remains England’s number one.
While Lee Carsley’s young guns caught the eye in a hugely impressive win in Athens, it was the senior professional in goal who gave them the platform for victory, pulling off three outstanding saves, a couple when the Three Lions were only a goal to the good.
And that made it a hugely satisfying night for Pickford, who had been AXED for England’s previous game, a 3-1 win against Finland in Helsinki.
Dean Henderson made his debut in that match but Pickford was back in his familiar position against the Greeks and posted one of his best performances in an England shirt for some time.
And his appearance means he could now enjoy a landmark moment if he keeps his place for Sunday’s game against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley on Sunday.
If Carsley sticks with Pickford, the 30-year-old will win his 73rd cap, putting him level with the great Gordon Banks on the list of England goalkeeping appearances. And he would then be behind only David Seaman, Joe Hart and, of course, the uncatchable Peter Shilton.
Pickford is clerkly aware of the numbers, saying: “One more. I’ll get prepared and hopefully get the call for Sunday and equal Gordon Banks. I just want to keep pushing and getting better as a goalkeeper.
“I know 75 is what Harty and David Seaman got, so that is another target in my sights. It’s about focusing and keeping getting better. I know the numbers but take every game as it comes, it’s about performing and wearing the shirt with pride and passion. There is nothing more I enjoy than playing for England.
The normally modest Pickford was clearly delighted with his display in the Olympic Stadium, going on: “I thought my all-round game was good, playing out, coming for crosses, making saves when called upon. I thought it was a good performance from me.”
And he was also delighted with the team’s display after a troubled build-up to what was a must-win Nations League game against the in-form Greeks.
Pickford said: “As a group, we weren’t happy with the Wembley defeat (against Greece in October), so it was a great all-round performance.
“We should be winning those games at home so we had a responsibility to go over to Greece and take on the challenge against a hostile crowd and a team not beaten for three years. It was a good performance.”
Join our new WhatsApp communityand receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Learn more
