Jordan Pickford has responded to criticism he’s received in recent months over his displays for Everton and England.
The 27-year-old made a number of high-profile mistakes earlier in the season as calls were made in some sections for him to be dropped for club and country.
However, the shot-stopper has been back to his best in recent months and is shining for Gareth Southgate’s side at Euro 2020, with him being the only goalkeeper yet to concede a goal as the Three Lions prepare for a quarter-final clash with Ukraine.
Manchester United legend and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has been highly critical of Pickford in the past, but took to Twitter earlier this week to praise the goalkeeper for his display in England’s win over Germany.
“My MOM last night was Jordan Pickford and I also think he’s been England’s player of the tournament so far,” he wrote.
“I’ve been critical of him with Everton but England he’s a different player!”
And when speaking ahead of facing Ukraine, the Blues goalkeeper revealed how he copes with criticism when asked about Neville’s comments past and present in particular.
“I think you’re always up for criticism when you’re an England player and when you’re a professional footballer really,” Pickford said.
“It’s about adapting yourself and maturing each day, as a person and as a footballer, and becoming the best you can be.
“Working hard off the pitch as well as on it and just getting the best out of yourself.”
