Rio Ferdinand says Everton star has caused a ‘problem’ at Euro 2024

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Fresh from their relegation survival, three Everton stars jetted to Germany this summer to compete in the 2024 Euros.

The Merseyside club overcame two separate points deductions and off-pitch financial issues to retain their Premier League spot next season.

The majority of Sean Dyche‘s squad can now enjoy a well-earned summer rest while Amadou Onana, Vitaliy Mykolenko and Jordan Pickford were instead called up for international duty at the Euros.

Pickford, in particular, was a crucial part of Everton’s Premier League survival with the 30-year-old keeping 13 clean sheets last season – the fourth-most of any goalkeeper in the division.

The Toffees shot-stopper has carried his form into his England duties with the only goal conceded in their opening two group games coming from Morten Hjulmand’s fierce long-range strike.

Pickford has been sensational for the Three Lions in recent tournaments, including his two penalty saves against Italy in the Euro 2020 final.

However, former England defender Rio Ferdinand believes his style of play is causing issues for the side.

Rio Ferdinand on Jordan Pickford at Euro 2024

While many spots in the England lineup were up for debate heading into the tournament, Pickford’s spot between the sticks was cemented.

His performances on the international stage have been faultless and he is now – deservedly – a mainstay in Southgate’s plans.

However, Ferdinand explained on Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE that Pickford must look for shorter passing options.

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“You have to pass the ball from the back, you have to play when people are under pressure – the best teams do that,” Ferdinand said.

“They pass the ball to people that have a man-on because they are confident and trust in their teammates.

“We [England] don’t do that, how often do we see the ball roll into Declan Rice? I want to see it demanded from him.

“Pickford starting these attacks is the problem because he is not trusting the individuals before Kane to keep the ball and once he doesn’t trust them to play out he goes long.”

England will end their group phase with a clash against Slovenia on Tuesday night where a win would guarantee top spot and a more favourable route to the final.