Jordan Pickford points out “new standard set” at Everton

Jordan Pickford was at his absolute best in the 1-0 win over Newcastle United in the final match of the season at St James’ Park. In a game where Everton had little to play for, the Blues denied the Champions League-chasing side a win, which shows how a “new standard has been set” at the club.

Charly Alcaraz’s header in the second half helped David Moyes’ side end the season on a fantastic note as they picked up a third win on the bounce. Pickford, who made six saves against the Magpies, thinks that the Blues should aim for a bright start to next season, which they will play at their new home ground at Bramley-Moore Dock.

“That is the standard and it's about continuing next season and it's about starting well – not getting the results at Christmas through to May. It’s about sustaining that momentum throughout the season,” Pickford told Everton TV.

“And when we take hits, it's how we bounce back as a team. And that's what the manager will be driving next season.”

It was the 12th clean sheet of the season for Pickford and only David Raya and Matt Selz, with 13 each, have a better record this season. The former Sunderland player was greeted with boos and jeers from the Newcastlle fans but his decisive saves quickly turned the situation around as songs of “Jordan Pickford is dynamite” filled the away section.

“I was in the moment and made some big saves, but I thought we were the better side all game.

“The lads grafted and could have scored a few more, as well. So, I think [to be playing against] a side who's just qualified for the Champions League – the way we played just gives us momentum going into next season.”

The 31-year-old, who has been with the club since 2017, captained the side at St James’ Park in the absence of Seamus Coleman and James Tarkowski. Despite not having anything to play for with their 13th place finish guaranteed ahead of the final matchday, Pickford said that manager David Moyes asked the team to “show character.”

“It’s always an honour to captain Everton,” he continued. “And, you know, when Seamus is not available and Tarks isn’t, you've got to step up and it's something I'm really proud of and I know I've always been a leader. Everyone leads in different ways.

“But, as well, there wasn't much of a team talk before the game. It was more the gaffer just said to show character. And I think that's what we did.

“There was no pressure on the game, but that's not the level. The level was what we went out and showed today. And as a team performance, it was a great one to finish on."

 

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