Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford’s absence from the England squad vs Finland was always planned despite a poor performance against Greece, according to Lee Carsley. Pickford played the full 90 minutes on Thursday night in the 2-1 defeat at Wembley Stadium but did not cover himself in glory along with the rest of his defence.
In the first half, the Blues’ shot-stopper was bailed out by Levi Colwill after being caught in possession outside his area. Under Gareth Southgate, Pickford was relied upon as the first choice goalkeeper for all competitive fixtures with England.
However, he is on the bench in Helsinki on Sunday evening. Explaining the reason for Pickford’s absence and Crystal Palace’s Dean Henderson starting against Finland, Carsley told ITV Sport: “It was a case of getting a look at a few different players and it was always the case that I would have a look at Dean in one of the games.”
For Everton fans, there are unlikely to be any tears shed to see their ‘keeper gaining a rest. At domestic level, Pickford is Sean Dyche’s No.1 and he has yet to miss a minute in the Premier League.
Before the international break, the 30-year-old gained plaudits after saving Anthony Gordon’s penalty at Goodison Park during the goalless draw against Newcastle United. Despite a difficult start to the season, Everton are three games unbeaten in the Premier League thanks to two draws and a victory over Crystal Palace.
The Toffees return to action on Saturday when they visit newly promoted Ipswich Town.
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