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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Matthew Holt

Petr Cech hails Jordan Pickford as Everton goalkeeper silences England 'debate'

Jordan Pickford's recent performances for England have been lauded by former Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech.

Everton shot-stopper Pickford has so far kept three clean sheets for the Three Lions in Qatar, having conceded just two goals in the entirety of the competition. Preparing to face reigning World champions France this weekend, the 28-year-old is expected to keep his place in between the sticks for Gareth Southgate's side.

With some criticism being cast Pickford's way prior to the tournament beginning, the former Sunderland man has responded valiantly, further cementing his place as England's go-to goalkeeper. Pulling off a trademark reflex save to deny Senegal's Boulaye Dia, former Blues man Cech has praised his recent showings.

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“I have enjoyed watching Jordan Pickford so far in the tournament, because he came under criticism and obviously here was a big debate about who should start for England in the tournament,” said Cech, when speaking with David Seaman most recently.

“Him having the experience of the World Cup and where he played really well. At the Euros he was brilliant. I think it was the right call to support and start him because in my opinion he hasn’t done anything wrong in those three tournaments.”

Bidding to reach back-to-back World Cup semi-finals this weekend, Pickford will face his tough test against Les Blues, with the likes of Olivier Giroud, Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappe all likely to start for Didier Deschamps' side.

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