Everton fans have been put through war supporting their club of late, and by all accounts, it is not set to get any easier.
Just when they seemed to have captured some semblance of stability on the pitch, Kevin Thelwell revealed that their shaky finances will once again see the side gutted.
The only hope is that they can get the right money for those whose absence would impact the team the least, and thus allow the club to keep some kind of stable footing after the summer is over.
Jordan Pickford is one example of a player they could not replace though.
Jordan Pickford issues update on Everton future
Taking to Instagram, the former Sunderland man would issue an update on his future, having been linked with a departure in recent months.
The club’s dire financial position have led to many of their star assets being touted for a departure, but to lose the 30-year-old would arguably be the toughest to take.
After all, he has grown from a shaky but stunning shot-stopper into one of the Premier League’s best goalkeepers.
He could not be replaced, and that is why a Jordan Pickford transfer would hurt more than most.
Fortunately though, his latest post should ease some fears, as he writes: ‘Proud of this team and how we overcame the challenges thrown at us during the season! Can’t wait to kick on and build next season! Thanks for your support throughout the season!’
Everton could not afford to lose Jordan Pickford
Whilst Jarrad Branthwaite may leave a huge hole in their backline, and Amadou Onana might be missed in the midfield, finding a capable and safe pair of hands in net arguably stands out above all else.
After all, you need only comb through the recently relegated teams to see what a good goalkeeper can do for a side battling the drop.
Pickford is far better than relegation dogfights, and he has shown it during the key moments over the last few seasons.
But when Leicester City and Leeds United went down at their expense during the 2022/23 term, the former failed to replace Kasper Schmeichel until it was too late, whilst Illan Meslier was far too unreliable when called upon.
Even this year, Burnley’s misguided trust in James Trafford proved to be their downfall, swapping keepers too late in the season.
Were Everton to lose Pickford, the gaping hole this would leave in the team, both regarding his quality and presence on the pitch, would simply be impossible to replace. He is one of the players who, no matter the price, Sean Dyche cannot afford to sell.
