Tuchel: Pickford still England's number one
Thomas Tuchel confirmed Jordan Pickford remains England’s number one goalkeeper but hinted he could again share minutes with understudy James Trafford during this week’s fixtures. The Everton keeper, a regular on Sir Gareth Southgate’s sheets since being named first choice for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, now faces fresh competition.
Pickford has played a key role in every tournament since 2018 but found himself on the bench at the start of England’s first meet‑up since that World Cup. The 93‑cap keeper featured in only half of the four‑game autumn camp as Tuchel started the Leeds youngster James Trafford in the opening two matches.
When asked if Pickford was no longer number one, Tuchel replied, “No, he is. Nothing has changed. The competition is there as well, like for the outfield players. Jordan Pickford is still England’s number one despite competition from James Trafford.”
He added, “Traff gets regular starts now, that’s what we wanted. James Trafford did well. They shared the matches last time.” “I’m not sure what we will do. There’s an opportunity that we maybe do this again. I have to speak with our goalkeeper coach. The goalkeepers are a bit of a unit for themselves, and rightly so.”
Nations League fixtures ahead
Tuchel has two more Nations League matches to complete a hectic schedule, with Thursday’s Wembley clash against Croatia followed by a trip to World Cup winners Spain on Sunday. He questioned, “It’s slightly different to outfield players, but when do I have a chance to see another goalkeeper if not in the Nations League? If not in high‑pressure matches?”
“We had James against Spain and wondered whether it was fair for James Trafford to go straightaway against Spain. It’s exactly what we need, because if Jordan Pickford is injured or unavailable we must be prepared, so testing him now is better.” “At the moment nothing has changed; he remains the number one and feels a bit of competition, which is good for him.”
Tuchel said the competition is also pushing Pickford and has revealed the 32‑year‑old’s quality of character. He praised Pickford’s reaction, stating, “I was very impressed and a bit surprised by his response. He said he totally understands it, wants James Trafford to have his chance and will push him, which shows great character.”