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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jack Rathborn

Jordan Pickford told he can improve technique by England goalkeeper coach to emerge from slump

Photograph: Getty

Jordan Pickford has been told by England’s goalkeeping coach that he can improve the technical details of his game in order to emerge from a difficult period of form.

Martyn Margetson, who has been working with the Everton shot-stopper this week, insists concentration will help him emerge from this slump. 

After being benched by Carlo Ancelotti for the game against Newcastle United, Pickford returned to face Manchester United last weekend.

Gareth Southgate reiterated that Pickford is still his No 1  despite some erratic displays.

And Margetson highlighted a save Pickford made to deny Dele Alli in Everton's league opener at Tottenham Hotspur and said during a show on Sky Sports earlier this week that the player was making life difficult for himself.

"If you look at his final set position, he's got virtually a 90-degree knee bend, which then makes his hands too low," Margetson told Sky Sports.

"... Your hand position is absolutely key to your success. They're the quickest things that can react and if your hands are too low... like in this instance, (when) the ball is struck above Jordan's head.

"If he starts with his hands a bit higher, then that save becomes easier.

"When you get to Pickford's level, that type of detail, your final set position when attackers make ball contact are the choices as a goalkeeper that win you and lose you games."

British media reported England back-up Nick Pope could don the gloves in Thursday's friendly with Ireland and that Pickford is likely to return for Sunday's Nations League clash against Belgium.

Reuters also contribute to this report

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