Rio Ferdinand has backed Jordan Pickford to remain England’s number one goalkeeper, despite increasing pressure from his rivals.
The Everton keeper’s position as Gareth Southgate’s number one was brought into focus once again after Burnley’s Nick Pope produced a superb performance to help his side to a 1-1 draw at Premier League champions Liverpool.
There has been plenty discussion over whether Pickford should remain England’s number one for Euro 2021, which was delayed by a year due to the coronavirus outbreak.
On-loan Manchester United goalkeeper Dean Henderson is also in the running after a great season for Sheffield United, who remain in the hunt for a place in Europe next season.
But former Manchester United defender Ferdinand believes Pickford should hold onto his spot with the Three Lions, citing his ability with the ball at his feet as the deciding factor.
“The passing accuracy of a goalkeeper. Listen, 10 years ago, that stat wouldn’t have even been on that table there, because we were not talking about goalkeeper’s feet, but we are now,” Ferdinand told BT Sport.
“Their footwork, feet and distribution is a key part for any team that wants to play football.
“Gareth Southgate, one of his philosophies and ethos is about playing out from the back. So, whoever goes in goal has to be good in that area, and Pickford is the best in that area out of the goalkeepers there, so that’s probably why we’ll see him ahead.”
Ferdinand added: “Also, you have to take into account the experience at tournament football. Pickford has played at a tournament and came home a hero.
“That can’t be forgotten. If you’re going into a tournament, do you want someone you’ve seen under the microscope, you’ve seen them under intense pressure, in shootouts pulling things out of their hat?
“He came home a national hero, alongside the likes of Maguire and Harry Kane. Let’s not forget that.
“I think he’s done enough to stay in there. I think he’s got that personality. People say, ‘Oh, he’s made mistakes here and there’. Who hasn’t? People go through stages in their career.”
