Dean Henderson told the official England podcast that Everton goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, ‘certainly deserves’ to be the Three Lions number one.
Many were calling for the Manchester United academy product to potentially dethrone the Everton man from Gareth Southgate’s starting XI.
And whilst question marks remain over the indifferent form of Pickford in Everton colours, he has never put a foot or glove wrong when repping England and was one of the best players in Russia three years ago.
Henderson shared this classy message about his fellow countryman despite the duo competing for that golden spot.
“As soon as you get into the group, you are a team and you work together,” said Henderson. “At the end of the day, we are going for the same shirt.
“I think he certainly deserves it off the back of the tournament he had. But it’s good to have that competition, with Sam (Johnstone) as well. Always pushing and knocking on the door.
“I think that would bring the best out of all of us.”
If Pickford can produce the form he showcased in Russia then it will certainly help this seemingly light and weak England defence.
Given the problems England have had at the back, various formations and personnel used, one thing that has remained a constant has been Pickford.
And he will need more of that today as Gareth Southgate’s men begin their quest to lift the Euros when they take on Croatia at Wembley.
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