Pickford Remains England’s Number One

The Unshakeable Stopper: Why Jordan Pickford's England Reign Endures

For the first time in many years, a genuine debate over England’s number one goalkeeper seems settled. While Gareth Southgate maintains that a healthy rivalry exists for every position, Jordan Pickford’s grip on the jersey appears stronger than ever. The Everton man, now 31, has amassed a wealth of experience and a record of delivering in high-pressure moments that his rivals cannot yet match. His combination of technical skill, proven tournament temperament, and a visible maturation has silenced many of his former critics, cementing his place as the nation's undisputed first choice between the posts.

A Record-Breaking Mainstay

Pickford stands on the verge of history. Another clean sheet in his next international appearance would see him surpass the legendary Gordon Banks for the most consecutive shut-outs for the Three Lions. This consistency is no recent phenomenon. Since his debut in 2017, he has kept opposing teams scoreless in exactly half of his appearances for his country. This reliability is the bedrock of his tenure. In an era where goalkeepers are judged on increasingly fine margins, his record speaks for itself. This remarkable run underscores his importance to a national side that has enjoyed unprecedented tournament success in recent years.

The Crucible of Tournament Football

Major tournaments forge reputations, and it is on this stage that Pickford has truly excelled. He was a central figure in England's journey to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, the nation's first since 1990. His crucial penalty shootout save against Colombia in that tournament became an iconic moment, breaking a long-standing curse for England in such situations. He followed this by playing a vital role in the team reaching its first-ever European Championship final in 2021 and repeating the feat in 2024. His performances in these high-stakes environments have built a reserve of trust that managers and teammates value immensely.

Golden Gloves and Nerves of Steel

At the rescheduled Euro 2020, Pickford’s excellence was officially recognised as he won the Golden Glove award. He made history by becoming the first goalkeeper to keep clean sheets in the first five games of a European Championship. During that tournament, he also set a new all-time England record for the most consecutive minutes without conceding a goal, surpassing a benchmark held by Gordon Banks for decades. Even in the final's heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Italy, he made crucial saves, further enhancing his reputation as a big-game player. This ability to perform under the most intense scrutiny sets him apart.

Surpassing the Legends

The records continue to tumble. During Euro 2024, Pickford surpassed Peter Shilton's long-standing record for the most clean sheets by an England goalkeeper at major international tournaments. He achieved his tenth shutout against Serbia and claimed the record outright with his eleventh in a draw with Slovenia. This achievement places him in the pantheon of great English goalkeepers, a testament to his longevity and consistent excellence. He also proved his penalty-saving prowess once more, denying Switzerland's first spot-kick in the quarter-final shootout. These moments are not just statistics; they are defining contributions to England's modern footballing story.

A Unique Technical Approach

Pickford’s style is not without its idiosyncrasies. Coaches have noted his tendency to adopt a low set position, with his hands sometimes dropping behind him. This unconventional stance can, in theory, make saves more difficult. However, his explosive reflexes and agility often compensate for any technical impurity. What truly matters is the outcome, and Pickford consistently makes vital saves. His method, while perhaps not from a textbook, is proven to be effective at the highest level of the game. He has honed a style that works for him, silencing technical purists with a catalogue of impressive stops.

Distribution as a Weapon

In the modern game, a goalkeeper’s ability with their feet is paramount. This is an area where Pickford has always excelled and continues to improve. His long-range distribution is considered among the best in the Premier League. The ability to launch fast and accurate counter-attacks with a single kick is a significant tactical advantage for both his club, Everton, and the national team. While the game has evolved to favour shorter passing from the back, Pickford has adapted, demonstrating proficiency in building play patiently while retaining his formidable long-kicking weapon.

Command and Communication

One of Pickford's most famous attributes is his animated and vocal presence on the pitch. He is a constant organiser, communicating with his defenders to ensure the backline remains compact and aware. This command of his penalty area is crucial, providing a sense of security for the players in front of him. His proactive approach, often rushing out to claim crosses or act as a 'sweeper-keeper', demonstrates confidence and an excellent reading of the game. This assertiveness helps to snuff out danger before it can fully develop.

The Maturation of a Leader

Early in his career, Pickford's on-field passion was sometimes linked to rash decisions and a perceived lack of composure. Former teammates like Wayne Rooney once felt he was "too agitated." However, there is a clear consensus that he has matured significantly. The histrionics have been toned down, replaced by a more focused and controlled aggression. This increased maturity has led to greater consistency, with fewer errors in his club performances. He has learned to channel his emotional energy effectively, becoming a calming influence and a leader within the squad.

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Handling the Pressure

Wearing the England number one jersey comes with immense pressure and scrutiny. Every goal conceded is analysed, and every mistake is magnified. A key part of Pickford's success has been his ability to handle this external "noise." He has developed the mental resilience required for the role, working hard not just on his game but on himself. This mental fortitude has allowed him to overcome periods of criticism and maintain his high standards. He has not just dealt with the scrutiny; he has effectively silenced it through his consistent performances.

Loyalty and Leadership at Everton

Pickford's long-standing commitment to Everton has been a significant factor in his development. He joined the club in 2017 and has since made over 322 appearances. He is a key part of the team's leadership group alongside Seamus Coleman and James Tarkowski. The club is eager to secure his services for the remainder of his career, with talks underway to extend his contract beyond its 2027 expiration. This loyalty, even when the club has faced struggles, shows a strength of character that is highly valued.

Honed in the Premier League Fire

Playing weekly for Everton, often in high-pressure situations and facing numerous shots, has undoubtedly sharpened Pickford's skills for the international stage. His consistent excellence for the Toffees, even during challenging relegation battles, has been remarkable. He has been a wildly consistent presence, rarely missing a Premier League match and often making the difference for his team. This weekly test against elite opposition ensures he remains at the peak of his powers when called upon by his country.

The Challengers: A Race for Second Place

While Pickford’s position seems secure, a number of goalkeepers are vying to be his successor. The group includes Arsenal's Aaron Ramsdale, Newcastle's Nick Pope, Crystal Palace's Dean Henderson, and Burnley's James Trafford. However, each faces significant hurdles in mounting a serious challenge. Their respective situations highlight the stability and consistency that make Pickford the clear first choice. The battle, for now, is to be his primary understudy.

Aaron Ramsdale's Frustration

Aaron Ramsdale enjoyed a stellar 2022-23 season but has since found himself as the second-choice goalkeeper at Arsenal, behind David Raya. This lack of regular first-team football is a major obstacle to his international ambitions. Gareth Southgate has previously stated that the situation is "not ideal" for a player hoping to be a key part of the England setup. While Ramsdale possesses talent, particularly with his feet, a sustained period on the sidelines makes it difficult to displace an incumbent who is performing consistently every week.

Nick Pope's Injury Woes

Nick Pope is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's finest traditional shot-stoppers. However, his England career has been hampered by untimely injuries and questions over his distribution skills compared to Pickford and Ramsdale. A serious shoulder injury required surgery and a lengthy spell on the sidelines, causing him to fall down the international pecking order. While he remains a formidable keeper, his fitness and stylistic differences present challenges to reclaiming a regular spot in the squad.

Dean Henderson's Ascent at Palace

Dean Henderson has impressed since joining Crystal Palace, establishing himself as a reliable Premier League performer. His second season at the club was particularly strong, culminating in a heroic, player-of-the-match performance in their remarkable FA Cup final victory. Henderson is a superb athlete with excellent reflexes, and he is gaining valuable experience leading the defence for Palace, including in their first European campaign. Of all the contenders, he is perhaps building the strongest case to be considered Pickford’s most immediate challenger.

James Trafford, The Young Pretender

James Trafford is the youngest of the contenders and is viewed as a long-term prospect. He was the hero of England's victory in the 2023 Under-21 European Championship, where he did not concede a single goal and dramatically saved a last-minute penalty in the final. After a challenging debut Premier League season with Burnley, he has impressed in the Championship. Trafford's distribution is a key strength, but he needs to establish himself as a consistent top-flight performer before he can truly enter the conversation for the senior number one spot.

The Pundits' Unanimous Verdict

The consensus among former players and pundits is clear: the debate over England’s number one is over. Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson notes that for the first time in a long while, there is no discussion, which is a credit to Pickford's superb and consistent form. The conversation has shifted from who should be in goal to appreciating what Pickford brings to the team. His 78 caps and extensive tournament experience put him on a level of certainty previously enjoyed by England greats like David Seaman.

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A Place Among England's Greats

England has a rich history of world-class goalkeepers, from World Cup winner Gordon Banks to the record cap-holder Peter Shilton. Pickford's sustained excellence and record-breaking performances have earned him a place in that esteemed company. His penalty shootout heroics and his crucial role in multiple deep tournament runs have already secured his legacy. He is no longer just England's current number one; he is statistically and demonstrably one of the nation's greatest-ever goalkeepers.

An Undisputed Reign

Ultimately, Jordan Pickford's position is built on a foundation of reliability, big-game temperament, and continual development. He has answered every question asked of him and overcome every challenge. While his rivals have their own merits, none can currently match his complete package of experience, proven international pedigree, and consistent club form. The race to be England’s number one may always be "on," but for the foreseeable future, all evidence suggests that it is a race Jordan Pickford has already won.