England defeated New Zealand in a World Cup warm-up game on Saturday night.
Thomas Tuchel’s side were in action in Florida ahead of their first World Cup group stage clash against Croatia on the 17th of June.
Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford started in goal in the 1-0 victory, playing the first 45 minutes before coming off for James Trafford.
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That said, we’ve had a look at how the national media reacted to his performance in Tampa.
Jordan Pickford steady as England keep clean sheet vs New Zealand
Pickford played his role in keeping a clean sheet for England in scorching hot temperatures, which reached around 32 degrees Celsius.
Here’s what The Standard had to say about the Toffees’ shot-stopper.
6/10 – “As expected, not made to do much, but the usual vocal presence at the back. Forced into a smart stop to deny Matt Garbett.”
The Express added.
6/10 – “An 83rd cap for the Everton No.1 and a 44th clean sheet, if you can count 45 minutes as a clean sheet. Saved well from a Matt Garbett shot from the edge of the box and one nice pass released Ollie Watkins.”
Goal stated.
6/10 – “Dealt well with an awkward effort from Matt Garbett but had very little to do overall.”
TalkSPORT continued.
“Jordan Pickford started between the sticks for England and was an assured presence throughout the first half.
“The Everton glovesman was not forced to make any saves of note, although he produced a smart stop to deny Matt Garbett’s curled effort from outside the box.”
Evidently, there will be bigger challenges ahead for Pickford, with the 32-year-old next in action on the 10th of June against Costa Rica.
That’s the last warm-up game before the World Cup officially kicks off the week after next.
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