An Everton player has been hailed as one of the best in the world in his position after an impressive couple of years at Goodison Park.
Since the turn of the year, it’s hard to pinpoint many standout performers for Sean Dyche’s side.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto have both struggled up front. Amadou Onana and James Garner were hooked off at halftime against Chelsea. Even the ever-dependable Jarrad Branthwaite was run ragged on Monday evening.
Several players need to find form fast, with the Toffees sitting just two points ahead of Luton Town and one point ahead of Sunday’s opponents, Nottingham Forest.
Jordan Pickford lauded as one of the world’s best
Jordan Pickford also endured a tough night at Stamford Bridge and was at fault for Cole Palmer’s third goal in the first half.
Nevertheless, the 30-year-old has been praised by one of his teammates in a recent interview with the club media.
Harry Tyrer, a 22-year-old who has spent the 2023/24 season at Chesterfield, has claimed Pickford is amongst the best in the world.
Talking after penning a new two-year deal at Goodison Park, he said: “His quality shows through in training and shows in games,” said Tyrer on his Blues teammate. “He’s world-class. He’s probably one of the best in the world right now. You just want to learn from him and learn what you can from him.”
Jordan Pickford couldn’t escape criticism on Monday evening
Despite the kind words from his teammate, the £30million signing couldn’t escape criticism on Monday evening.
Evertonians need no reminder of just how dire their side’s performance was in West London. Nevertheless, Jamie Carragher was scathing in his assessment of Pickford’s error.
Talking on Monday Night Football, he said: “Jordan Pickford has had a nightmare. He should have done better on that one [Palmer second], and I don’t know why he is trying to pass through Chelsea players on his right foot.
“He has a great left foot but that’s the difference when you see a goalkeeper using his right foot and an outfield player using his right foot.”