BBC pundit Danny Murphy is not convinced that Jordan Pickford can become England’s number one goalkeeper in the future - suggesting Jack Butland is the young keeper who can make the jersey his own.
Despite Sunderland’s struggles at the bottom of the Premier League table, Pickford has been in sensational form for the Black Cats, earning rave reviews for his performance.
The 23-year-old will likely keep net for England’s under-21’s in this summer’s European Championships, but he has twice been called up to the senior England squad this season.
With Sunderland’s relegation already confirmed, it is almost certain Pickford will leave the Stadium of Light this summer.
Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle and Red Bull Leipzig have all be credited with an interest in Pickford, although it is believed Sunderland have slapped a £30 million price tag on their prized asset.
However, Murphy believes the fee is a lot for a goalkeeper who has has had ‘one half-decent season’ and suggested that Stoke’s Butland - and not Pickford - represents England’s future between the sticks.
Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford (Photo: PA)
Speaking on Football Focus, Murphy said: “It’s a lot. Pickford’s only had one half-decent season. You have to be careful judging goalkeepers who are making so many saves because it means they’re probably playing behind a poor team.
“Butland is the one for me, the one who can take that jersey and make it his own. He’s a sensational goalkeeper.”
However, fellow pundit Jermaine Jenas believes that Pickford is in a very strong position this summer, with so many of England’s big clubs on the lookout for a new goalkeeper.
He added: “I think there are a number of top clubs who are still searching. I don’t think Manchester City are 100 per cent happy, Liverpool maybe, although I know Mignolet has had a decent end to the season, Everton. There are a few who could be having a look around. They’re in a good place, people like Pickford.”
- Chroniclelive