Jordan Pickford
With just a season under relegated Sunderland, many Evertonians might think it was waste to spend so much money in a goalkeeper with such a low premier league experience, however, during the end of the season in awards night, Jordan Pickford won club's player of the season and young player of the season silencing the critics who doubted him. Pickford has amazing ball distribution and is an incredible showstopper. His can read the crosses delivered by opponents in the box and is not afraid to command a veteran like Wayne Rooney as per the need of the team.
Early Life And Career Of Jordan Pickford
Jordan Lee Pickford was born on 7th March 1994 in Washington, Sunderland in the United Kingdom to father Lee Pickford and mother, Sue Pickford. During his early years, he joined St.Robert of Newminister Catholic School and played as goalkeeper due to his tall height.
At the age of eight, he joined youth academy of Sunderland and progressed through youth ranks before finally signing a professional contract in 2011. Pickford was then sent to loan to six various clubs from 2012 to 2017 which included Darlington, Alfreton Town, Burton Albion, Carlisle United, Bradford City and Preston North End.
During his spell at Bradford City and Preston North End, he impressed most and made 33 and 24 appearances for the club.
Jordan Pickford's Professional Career
After Sunderland struggled in the premier league during 2015/16 season, Jordan Pickford was recalled from loan in Preston on 1st January 2016. He made his first-team debut against Arsenal in a 3-1 FA cup loss on 9th January 2016 and league debut against Tottenham Hotspur in a 4-1 loss on 16th January 2016.
After the injury of Vitor Mannone, Pickford played regularly on the course of 2016/17 season. He was one of the brightest hopes in Sunderland's dismal campaign as they were relegated. He made 32 appearances over the season and was also listed in nominations for PFA young player of the year.
After his excellent displays with Sunderland, he was transferred to Everton at the fee of $39 Million. He made his league debut for Everton on 12th August 2017 as Everton beat Stoke City 1-0. At the end of the season, he made 46 appearances for the club and won club's player of the season and young player of the season awards.
Jordan Pickford's International Career
From his early days, England National team knew what talent Pickford behold. He represented his country at every youth level from Under 16 to Under 21. He was also part of the team that won 2016 Toulon tournament.
On 9th October 2016, Pickford was included in England's senior national team, however, he was unused substitute throughout the game. He made his first-team debut for three lions on 10th November 2017 in 0-0 draw with Germany at Wembley stadium.
He is also included on 23 man squad to play in FIFA Worldcup Russia 2018.
Jordan Pickford's Networth And Salary
When Pickford signed for Everton, he became the third most expensive goalkeeper of the history. He earns a salary of almost $80,000 per week from Everton. His estimated net worth is about $6 million. He also endorses Nike brand. His car collections include Audi and Range Rover.
His current market value is about $20 Million.
Jordan Pickford's Personal Life
Pickford is not married yet, but he is in a relationship with his longtime girlfriend, Megan Davison. The couple is together since 14 years of age. Megan Davison is University graduate with a second cla s s upper degree.
The couple is quite opened up about their relationship and regularly posts their romantic snaps on Instagram.
Jordan Pickford has unlikely middle name Lee which comes from Asia due to his Asian family ancestorial origins. He has an older brother named Richard Pickford. Both used to play football together during junior years.
It was his brother who inspired him to be a better footballer. However, his brother could never make it to the professional level.