Former Watford captain, Troy Deeney, has questioned Jordan Pickford’s suitability as England’s first-choice goalkeeper, insisting the Everton shot-stopper could hinder the Three Lions’ hopes of winning the World Cup.
Pickford retained his place between the posts as England opened their World Cup campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday.
Despite the win, the 32-year-old came under scrutiny after conceding twice, while he was also seen exchanging words with England manager Thomas Tuchel during the first half.
Although Pickford has been England’s undisputed No. 1 for several years and has featured prominently in four major tournaments, Deeney believes the goalkeeper’s style creates uncertainty at the back.
Speaking on CBS Sports, the former Watford striker was asked whether he considered Pickford too chaotic.
“To say the least, yeah,” Deeney replied. “I don’t really know the stats and all of that. I’m just saying what my eyes told me.
“I still think he should have saved the first one [Croatia goal], that’s my opinion. I think when you get a hand to it, it’s got to be a solid hand and keep it out.
“There’s just that feeling when I watch Jordan…there’s a shot from 50 yards and it trickles to him and he’s screaming at everyone, ‘Do your job! Don’t let any shots come in’!
“Every time he parries one, fouls someone, does whatever, he’s like, ‘Don’t look at me’. We’re trying to win a World Cup. That’s why we’re here.
“In my opinion, and respectfully Jordan, because you know I like you. We can’t win it with that guy in goal. He doesn’t give you any confidence.”
However, Manchester United defender Harry Maguire offered a different assessment of his international teammate, describing Pickford as composed and reliable under pressure.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Maguire outlined Tuchel’s tactical ideas and praised the goalkeeper’s contribution during England’s opening match.
“I think we’ve got four lads in the back four who all want to build up,” Maguire explained. “I think Picks [Pickford] today was really calm. Really, really calm under pressure.
“I think the two in central midfield want to take the ball. I think the wide wingers, he’s big on pressure and counter-press. So I think we’re going to build up but I think the flip side is we’re going to press high and press in their half and I think we saw that today.”
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