Pickford vows improvement as Trafford pushes for England number one role

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 2 Oct, 19:13 · Archive

Jordan Pickford's position as England's number one goalkeeper is under threat from James Trafford.

Jordan Pickford's position as England's number one goalkeeper, previously uncontested, is now under scrutiny following the emergence of James Trafford as a rival. Trafford has played the last two Nations League games whilst Pickford watched from the sidelines.

Pickford has responded to the challenge with defiance, declaring that he is 'only getting better'. The Everton goalkeeper appeared to gain value from observing the recent matches, despite rarely finding himself on the bench for England.

Thomas Tuchel, England's manager, has made his stance on the goalkeeper competition clear, according to the reports, though the specific details of his position are not disclosed. Pickford has been working extensively on his preparation, undertaking three-hour weekly video calls with a mind coach to maintain his edge during this period of reduced playing time.

How it is being reported

• Jordan Pickford reveals he has weekly THREE-HOUR Zoom calls with a mind coach as the England No 1 opens up on his future after watching understudy James Trafford get his chanceDaily Mail Sport · 2 Oct, 19:00
• Jordan Pickford responds to James Trafford competition as Thomas Tuchel makes stance clearMirror Sport · 2 Oct, 19:00
• Jordan Pickford defiant amid threat to England No 1 spot: ‘I’m only getting better’Independent Sport · 2 Oct, 16:41

In this story: Jordan Pickford · James Trafford · Thomas Tuchel · England · Everton

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