Everton fans watched last night’s England match with keen interest, not only because it marked their European Championships opener, but also because one of their stars was starting.
Jordan Pickford has grown into a mainstay for his country in the last few years, and the Toffees could not be prouder.
However, that makes it all the more frustrating when the 30-year-old comes under scrutiny, whether it be warranted or not.
On this occasion, the criticism certainly falls under the latter category.
Gabby Agbonlahor rates Jordan Pickford’s England display
Gabby Agbonlahor is renowned for his controversial opinions, and as a talkSPORT pundit, it is almost written in his job description to ensure that whatever he says commands interest.
So, whether that be siding with a hugely popular opinion, or digging out a player when possible, the 37-year-old is happy to do it all.
Unfortunately for Everton fans, the subject of his latest scrutiny was Jordan Pickford, who he only gave a 6/10 for last night’s showing
This was despite much of the national media praising Pickford’s England display vs Serbia.
Agbonlahor would accompany that rating with the following justification: ‘Got to give [Jordan] Pickford a six, I thought he did his job, few ridiculous punches, some of his kicking wasn’t great, kicking the ball straight to the defence.’
Everton’s Jordan Pickford was flawless
It’s quite laughable to see the former Aston Villa striker poke holes in Pickford’s game, despite the goalkeeper being one of the few on the pitch to actually do their job.
For all the hype, England were massively blunted by a lack of balance in the backline (a problem a left-footed defender like Jarrad Branthwaite might have solved) as well as an inability to sustain their pressure.
The first half an hour saw Southgate’s side perform admirably, dominating the play and forging half-chances before taking the lead.
However, the left side soon became anonymous, as Kieran Trippier was always forced to cut inside onto his favoured right foot, whilst Phil Foden drifted anywhere but his position.
Harry Kane did nothing up front, whilst Trent Alexander-Arnold looked shaky in the engine room.
Meanwhile, Pickford made the saves he was forced to, kept the ball away from his goal, and kicked appropriately long when Serbia pushed forward. A very questionable outlook from Agbonlahor, in all honesty.