Jordan Pickford, Everton and England’s first-choice goalkeeper, has opened up about his record-breaking international performances, renewed commitment to his club, and personal passions in a revealing interview, while expressing his ultimate ambition to lead England to World Cup glory. The discussion, part of a new series, delves into his mindset, career milestones, and off-field interests, highlighting his journey from a Sunderland fan to a key figure in English football.
Pickford, who recently signed a new contract with Everton, reflected on his career trajectory, emphasizing the significance of his roots at Sunderland, where he started as a youth player. He described how loan spells at lower-league clubs were instrumental in his development, teaching him to thrive under pressure and mature as a goalkeeper. His move to Everton in 2017 marked a pivotal step, leading to over 300 appearances and multiple player of the year awards, underscoring his consistency and value to the team.
A standout achievement discussed was Pickford breaking Gordon Banks’ long-standing England record for consecutive clean sheets, extending it to nine matches after a win against Latvia in October. He humbly attributed this feat to collective effort, stressing that clean sheets are a team accomplishment rather than an individual one. Pickford explained the mental discipline required to stay focused during games where he might have little to do, highlighting concentration and communication as crucial elements of his role.
Beyond his professional life, Pickford shared personal insights, including the influence of his family and the joys of fatherhood. He spoke fondly of watching his six-year-old son play football, noting how a simple conversation about concentration transformed the boy’s enjoyment of the game. Pickford described himself as caring and passionate, traits his teammates often characterize as ‘bonkers,’ but he acknowledged striving for balance in his competitive nature.
His childhood in a lively household shaped his love for football, with memories of playing on the streets and his mother’s unwavering support, including daily calls and messages before games. Pickford revealed a lesser-known passion for motocross, a hobby he pursued avidly in his youth by attending races with friends. However, contract restrictions prevent him from participating now, though he still enjoys the adrenaline of watching events and cheering on his best mate in the British Championships.
Looking ahead, Pickford outlined his ambitions for Everton, aiming for a top-half finish in the Premier League and potential European qualification, driven by the club’s positive direction and new signings. For England, his primary goal is to win the World Cup, believing the current squad has the experience and talent to achieve this long-awaited triumph. He emphasized the importance of self-belief and performing at their best in each game to succeed on the global stage.
Reflecting on his career, Pickford expressed pride in his sustainability and dedication to continuous improvement, viewing football as a lifelong passion rather than a fleeting achievement. He remains motivated by the dream of lifting major trophies, both for country and club, and hopes to inspire future generations through his journey and commitment to the sport.