Jordan Pickford playing for England U21 in 2017
Jordan Lee Pickford, born on 7th March 1994 in Washington, Tyne and Wear, is a name that has become synonymous with goalkeeping prowess. He is an English professional footballer who currently dons the gloves for Premier League club Everton and the England national team.
A Rising Star in the Making
Pickford's journey in the footballing world began at Sunderland's academy. From a young age, it was apparent that he possessed an extraordinary talent between the posts. He progressed through the ranks, catching the eye of scouts and coaches alike. Loan spells at various clubs, including Darlington, Alfreton Town, Burton Albion, Carlisle United, Bradford City, and Preston North End, provided invaluable experience and honed his skills.
In June 2017, Everton secured Pickford's services for a fee of £30 million, making him the third most expensive goalkeeper in history at the time. This signing signaled the faith placed in his abilities and set the stage for him to shine on a bigger stage.
Representing the Three Lions
Pickford's skills have not gone unnoticed on the international stage either. He has proudly represented England at various youth levels, starting from the under-16s to the under-21s. In November 2017, he made his debut for the senior England national team in a friendly against Germany.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup showcased Pickford's true potential. With his exceptional abilities, he played a pivotal role in England's remarkable fourth-place finish in the tournament. It was during this World Cup that he became the hero of the nation, making crucial saves and helping England secure their first penalty shoot-out victory in World Cup history.
Jordan Pickford playing for England at the 2018 FIFA World Cup
Pickford's impressive performances continued in the UEFA Nations League and UEFA Euro 2020. He played a crucial part in England's journey to the Euro final, where they narrowly missed out on the trophy. His exceptional command of the box and shot-stopping abilities have solidified his position as England's first-choice goalkeeper.
A Stellar Club Career
Since joining Everton, Pickford has established himself as one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier League. His shot-stopping abilities, coupled with his excellent distribution skills, have made him an invaluable asset for the club.
During the 2017-18 season, Pickford's first at Everton, he showcased his exceptional goalkeeping qualities, earning him the title of Everton's Player of the Season. He has consistently displayed his talent, earning accolades and becoming a fan favorite at Goodison Park.
Personal Life and Achievements
Off the field, Pickford leads a fulfilling personal life. He married his long-time girlfriend, Megan Davison, in a beautiful ceremony in the Maldives in June 2022. The couple welcomed their son in 2019, adding to the joy in their lives.
Pickford's achievements extend beyond the football pitch. He has been recognized as the Premier League's Save of the Season and has earned personal accolades, including Everton Player of the Season and England Under-21 Player of the Year.
With his unwavering dedication, remarkable reflexes, and ability to make crucial saves, Jordan Pickford has proven himself to be a goalkeeper extraordinaire. As he continues to ply his trade for Everton and England, fans can look forward to witnessing his mastery between the posts for years to come.
Disclaimer: The statistics mentioned in this article are accurate as of 23rd December 2023.
