As 2018 draws to a close, we’ll be hearing from some of the England squad on what their highlights of the year were.
For goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, it was undoubtedly his senior breakthrough year having only made his first start in November 2017 and then going on to secure his spot as Gareth Southgate’s number one.
And the Everton ace still fondly recalls earlier in the year when he first knew his place in the World Cup squad was confirmed.
“It’s unbelievable really,” he said. “Getting there, getting in the squad and getting on that plane was a massive thing for me.
“Being in a World Cup and being quite successful in a World Cup for England is just the start for us hopefully.
“It’s a great craic when you come away with England, and we do a lot of stuff together.”
There was one unforgettable moment on the pitch for the former Sunderland stopper too, his shootout save in the World Cup win over Colombia.
“It was a great save and crucial for the team at the time,” he admits.
“I know I’ve got a penalty save in my locker, so to do my research and work a lot with Marge [Martyn Margetson], it was quality to pull it off and help the team out.”
Pickford’s save was also picked out as one of team-mate Kyle Walker’s best moments of the year, along with the phrase he shouted after victory was secured.
So what does it mean, Jordan?
“Send the huskies in!
“It’s just something I just say up north, all my mates say it and I just kept saying it in the summer. They all noticed it too.”
Does Jordan get your vote for the England Men’s Senior player of the year in 2018? Voting is now underway for members of the England Supporters Club, which is FREE to join.
