Jordan Pickford hits back over criticism

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has taken a swipe at player-turned-pundit Gary Neville and a host of other critics who he feels “hate” him.

The England number one’s mistake, letting Christian Benteke’s equaliser slip under him, in the 3-1 win over Crystal Palace put the focus back on his individual form after a mixed last 18 months.

Neville criticised him back in September for laughing when 3-1 down to Manchester City, while plenty have been quick to scrutinise Pickford over other perceived failings.

Even some Everton fans have been so frustrated by his lack of consistency they have called for him to be dropped.

Pickford knows he is there to be shot at but believes his position as first-choice for England makes him a particular target.

“I think the press and everybody; the punters – look at Gary Neville – they just want to come for England players,” he said.

“Everyone gets stick. Some get a lot more praise than others. That’s part of being an England player.

“Everyone hates you, for some reason. I just get on with it. You have got to live with it, you have got to learn. I know what I am capable of and I know what I am good at.

“It is what it is. Look at Joe Hart when he was number one. He got pelters every week.

“You just keep it away from your head as the only person who can sort things out is yourself as an individual, on the pitch and in training.

“It’s looking after things on the pitch for Everton that is my main aim. That gets you picked for England.

“It’s funny because everyone raves about you when you are with England but then you get back to your club and everyone wants to slate you.

“As a person, I don’t let it affect me. But it does p*** you off.”

Last season Pickford made four errors which led to goals. He has two in the current campaign.

He accepts he made a mistake for Benteke’s goal but felt there were mitigating circumstances.

The fact Richarlison scored soon after to retake the lead and Pickford himself made an excellent point-blank save to deny the Belgium international also took some of the heat off him.

“I’ve watched the goal. I’m lucky I haven’t done my cruciate, to be honest. My foot planted. It was a foot save and I have led with my hand,” he added.

“I couldn’t get my leg out. It was stuck. It happens. But I am mentally strong. I’m disappointed but it doesn’t affect us.

“People probably doubt us week in, week out but I know what I am capable of and I know what I can do.

“I will keep pushing. I have reached a certain level and I don’t want to stop.”