Preston North End manager expects Jordan Pickford to thrive at Everton.
Preston North End manager Simon Grayson.
Preston North End manager, Simon Grayson, has backed Jordan Pickford to thrive at Everton.
Earlier this week, Sky Sports reported that Sunderland have agreed a fee totaling £30 million for the highly talented goalkeeper.
The fee will reportedly include a number of add-ons over the course of a long-term contract, but Sunderland are certain to pocket £25 million for their star player.
According to Sunderland Echo, Pickford has completed his medical in Poland on Wednesday, ahead of England’s European Under-21 Championship opener against Sweden.
Simon Grayson, who signed Pickford on loan for the first half of the 2015/16 season, said that the move to Everton will inspire the 23-year-old keeper.
England’s Jordan Pickford during training
He has showered high praise on Pickford, saying he is a “winner”, and that he will be aiming to grab the England’s senior number one spot.
“The move will inspire him,” said Grayson, as quoted by Sunderland Echo.
“The lad loves the attention – he will thrive on that without being big-time. He is vocal and he is a winner. “He loves the pressure of being the best he can.
“He will be looking at the England situation at the moment and thinking the next port of call is to be England’s number one.”
Sunderland’s Jordan Pickford
Grayson adds that Pickford has all the qualities to become a top class player, but he is still young and there’s enough room for him to develop.
The Deepdale manager admitted that he was surprised with the amount quoted for Pickford, but considering Manchester City paid £35 million for Ederson, this deal makes sense.
General view outside the stadium before the match – Goodison Park
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