Following their relegation escape, three Everton players flew to Germany this summer to compete in the 2024 Euros. The Merseyside team overcame two distinct point deductions and off-field financial concerns to secure a Premier League position for next season. The majority of Sean Dyche’s team can now take a well-deserved summer break, while Amadou Onana, Vitaliy Mykolenko, and Jordan Pickford have been called up for international duty at the Euros. Pickford, in particular, was critical to Everton’s Premier League survival, keeping 13 clean sheets last season, the fourth-highest total of any goalie in the league.
The Toffees’ shot-stopper has continued his form into his England responsibilities, conceding only one goal in their first two group games to Morten Hjulmand’s ferocious long-range drive. Pickford has performed admirably for the Three Lions in recent tournaments, notably two penalty saves against Italy in the Euro 2020 final. However, former England defender Rio Ferdinand believes his style of play is causing problems for the team.
Rio Ferdinand on Jordan Pickford at Euro 2024 While several positions in England’s roster were up for debate prior into the competition, Pickford’s place between the sticks seemed secure. His performances on the international stage have been flawless, and he is now, justifiably, a key component of Southgate’s ambitions. However, Ferdinand noted on Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE that Pickford needs to seek for shorter passing alternatives.
“You have to pass the ball from the back, you have to play when people are under pressure – the best teams do that,” Ferdinand told reporters. “They pass the ball to players in man-on-man situations because they believe in their teammates. “We [England] don’t do that; how frequently do we see the ball roll into Declan Rice?” I want to see it required of him. “Pickford starting these attacks is the problem because he is not trusting the individuals before Kane to keep the ball and once he doesn’t trust them to play out he goes long.”
England will conclude their group stage with a match against Slovenia on Tuesday night, with a win ensuring top spot and a more favorable path to the final.
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