Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has rested goalkeeper Jordan Pickford for their clash with Newcastle United.
The Blues shot-stopper has faced fierce criticism for his recent performances and was much talked about following the Merseyside derby after his challenge on Virgil van Dijk.
Carlo Ancelotti and England boss Gareth Southgate have both issued their full support to Pickford and he remains the number one for both bosses.
However, the Englishman has been replaced by Robin Olsen for the first time this season to face the Magpies.
Ancelotti confirmed that the decision was to rest Pickford against Newcastle, rather than drop him for his performances and that he will return in goal against Manchester United.
"I just want to give @JPickford1 a rest for this game and to give an opportunity to Olsen, to have minutes. Jordan will be back for the next game against Manchester United," he told Everton.
The Toffees are also without Luca Digne, Richarlison and James Rodriguez, with the latter the only man absent through injury rather than suspension.
In the build-up to the game, Steve Bruce defended Pickford when quizzed on the goalkeeper.
The Newcastle United boss was in charge of Sunderland when Pickford broke through their ranks and began his career.
“Let me tell you, he’s a very good goalkeeper,” said head coach Steve Bruce.
“When you’re England’s No.1, you’re there to be shot at. Every mistake he makes will be highlighted.
"That goes with the territory of being England’s No.1. He’ll have to deal with that.
"When he’s played for England, he’s never let anybody down. He just has to adapt to it, get on with it, and accept it’s part of being a goalkeeper, especially if you’re England’s No.1.”
