Everton have often been snubbed for awards over the years, whether it be managerial merits or recognition for a player’s successes.
However, across the last decade or so, there has been little cause for celebration really anyway, given how the Toffees have slowly regressed under Farhad Moshiri’s ownership.
Sean Dyche has sought to restore some of what once made Everton great, but he is far from finished in his efforts to truly heal the club.
He has certainly been aided by a few key players though, who are finally now getting some of the accolades they so richly deserve.
Gary Neville lauds Jordan Pickford
Speaking on last night’s Monday Night Football, Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher both sought to offer up their selections live on Sky Sports.
And whilst Everton have battled the drop for the bulk of the campaign, there were a few standout players who were worthy of a mention.
Jarrad Branthwaite was unfortunate to be in a hotly-contested position at centre-back, and thus was omitted, but Jordan Pickford was far more prevalent in discussions.
In fact, the former Manchester United full-back even suggested, when discussing his goalkeeper: ‘Martinez – I think his xG saved stats, personality, character… Alisson that little injury maybe… How you finish the season has an impact.
‘I felt I had to have a Villa player in the team. It was either going to be Watkins or Martinez. I was looking at Martinez, Alisson or Pickford and it’s the first time I’ve looked at Pickford.
‘I’ve been critical of him at times in his Everton career. He’s proved himself with England and become a really reliable and good goalkeeper. Martinez to me is the best goalkeeper.’
Jordan Pickford is Everton’s most important player
With Branthwaite and Amadou Onana two stars expected to depart this summer, given the high value they have both commanded, their exits would not be half as bad as if Pickford were to leave.
And he too has been linked with his fair share of alternative clubs, but having signed a new deal back in February 2023, in the middle of the darkest period in Everton’s recent history, his future seems far more secure.
The £30m former Sunderland man has forged himself into a Goodison Park hero with his performances particularly across the last three seasons, having made countless stunning stops to win vital points for his struggling side.
However, this campaign he has really been allowed to flourish, and finally boasts the defensive stats to prove it.
Only title-challenging Arsenal have more clean sheets, with them, Manchester City and Liverpool the only three clubs to have conceded fewer goals. He is a leader and a remarkable footballer, and so important for this side.
It is a remarkable feat for a side battling the drop, and a testament to Pickford’s immense quality. He deserves far more than merely seeking to retain Premier League status, but his loyalty will only further cement his legacy as an Everton hero.