Very good’… Jordan Pickford says what Everton’s attackers have done well this season

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Everton’s defensive record has been the cornerstone of any success Sean Dyche’s side has had this season.

Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski’s partnership has helped the Toffees to eight clean sheets, third-best in the Premier League.

Branthwaite has been the standout performer, with plenty of pundits calling for the 21-year-old to be part of Gareth Southgate’s England plans.

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Gary Lineker said: “I think the central defensive position has been an interesting one for quite some time, but you look now with the likes of Branthwaite, the likes of Colwill, Guehi obviously as well.”

Another crucial part of Everton’s defensive unit has been Jordan Pickford. Despite playing an important role, the 29-year-old has insisted Everton’s defending starts from the top end of the pitch.

Jordan Pickford praises Everton’s attackers

Talking live on talkSPORT on Tuesday afternoon, Pickford said: “No, it’s a team effort, and our defensive record is very good this season.

“That’s not just me and the defenders, it’s from the striker all the way back, we’re all working hard to be resilient at the back and keeping clean sheets like we have been doing.

“But it’s about clean sheets, and that’s probably been the difference in the last few games and the difference between drawing and losing.”

Dyche deserves plenty of praise for the Toffees’ defensive record. It’s what any manager should be looking to do first when first stepping into a new role.

Furthermore, it shows Everton are extremely close to being a competitive top-flight side; the foundations are in place.

Talking about the Toffees’ defensive record, Dyche recently said: “I’m pleased with that side of things, and that’s the whole team. A lot is made about individuals in the back unit, but I think we ask the players to defend from the front, and I think they’re getting better at that.

“The tactical shape and understanding the side, I think, has improved and then finding that balance for scoring goals – we know that’s the biggest part of the challenge – transitioning the chances we’re making into actual finishes and actual goals. That’s obviously still a work in progress.”

Looking ahead to the weekend’s clash against Manchester United, there’s an opportunity for Everton to cause an upset. The home side are by no means solid at the back and have conceded two more goals than the Toffees.