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‘World class’: Sam Allardyce says Everton player has been absolutely ‘outstanding’ in last two games
Former Everton manager Sam Allardyce has praised Jordan Pickford, who he says has been outstanding in two recent crucial wins.
Allardyce was not the most popular Toffees manager of all time but has worked with Pickford at both Sunderland and Goodison Park.
Speaking on , Allardyce said Pickford has been Everton’s ‘hero’ in victories over Chelsea and Leicester which have moved the club to within touching distance of safety.
Pickford has produced virtuoso performances in both those games and Everton take on Watford tomorrow night, looking for a win which would all-but seal survival.
Allardyce praises Jordan Pickford
“This time round, Frank’s pulled it off. Two fantastic wins,” said Allardyce.
“I have to give a big thinks to Jordan Pickford, who I know extremely well, I gave him his debut at Sunderland when I were there and worked with him at Everton.
“He has been the hero for Everton in the last two games, with the saves he’s made. They have been at the right time, world class and outstanding.
“They’re the big reason Everton have got the points in the bag and if they win Watford now, they’re nearly there. Everyone will expect them to beat Watford, it won’t be that easy but they’re nearly there now.”
It is no surprise Allardyce praised Pickford for his recent performances, because they have been the difference between six points and two points, maybe even lower for Everton in the last two weeks.
Frank Lampard will hope that his goalkeeper is less busy against Watford, managed by his former England boss Roy Hodgson and already relegated.
Pickford’s Everton form has been underrated in recent seasons, with a popular misconception that he only turns it on for England at major tournaments.
He has been showing his quality lately and Everton need those same standards between now and the end of the season.