Jordan Pickford reveals deep Everton bond ahead of 2026 World Cup quest

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford insists he loves playing for the club and remains England's number one ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Rooney and Pickford's shared legacy There are clear parallels between Wayne Rooney and Jordan Pickford, built on mutual respect and a shared passion for Everton and England. The pair have appeared together 550 times for Everton and 202 times for England. Rooney holds England's all-time scoring record and the most caps by an outfield player with 120 appearances. Pickford recently broke the record for most consecutive clean sheets by any Three Lions goalkeeper, and Rooney believes he is on course to become England's greatest goalkeeper ever. ## England's 60-year trophy drought focus During their conversation, Pickford and Rooney discussed how ending England's 60-year men's team trophy drought will be a central theme at this summer's World Cup. Pickford, aged 32, reflected on the pain of falling short in past finals and the drive it provides. He said: "We need something as a nation to win. Any England ex-player.. I don't think they'll ever be jealous. Everybody needs it, it's only going to push the England badge forward. It's football, it's going to make it grow." He added that close misses fuel the group's ambition to finally cross the final hurdle together. ## Pickford's early England impact recalled Rooney shared a vivid memory of Pickford's first impression when he joined the England squad as a late call-up for a World Cup qualifier in Slovenia at age 22. Rooney said: "The first time I met you was when you were in the England squad. I always remember being sat there and you got on the bus for the first time, and you came and sat next to me." Pickford admitted he was nervous about the team's induction song ritual, recalling his awe at sharing the bus with a player he had admired since childhood. He described feeling overwhelmed even before stepping onto the pitch. ## Path to England's starting spot Pickford earned his first England cap in a 0-0 draw with Germany at Wembley in November 2017, following his promotion from the youth ranks. He has since started every England match at four major tournaments: the 2018 World Cup, Euro 2021, the 2022 World Cup, and Euro 2024. England suffered losses in two European finals but reached semifinals and quarterfinals in World Cups during that span. Despite his longevity as England's number one, Pickford insists he never takes his position for granted and continues to push himself to improve daily. ## Everton arrival and fan connection Pickford joined Everton from Sunderland in 2017 for an initial £25 million, becoming the most expensive British goalkeeper at the time. He reflected on the immediate pressure and recalled his first home Premier League game at Goodison Park where he made a key save in a 1-0 victory. Rooney admitted he saw potential in Pickford early, saying: "At the time I thought, 'this could be Everton and England's number one goalkeeper for a long time'." Nine years later, Pickford remains Everton's first-choice keeper after signing a new contract in October 2025 to stay until 2029. ## Rooney questions loyalty amid struggles Rooney asked Pickford directly why he has stayed at Everton despite limited recent success, noting many would have moved to bigger clubs. Pickford responded by highlighting the special bond between the club, its fans, and the local community. He said Everton is known as the 'People's Club' and emphasized the warmth of the people and staff, as well as the family's love for the club and Goodison Park. He acknowledged the team's inconsistent league form but stressed the loyalty he feels toward the Toffees. ## Everton's European absence and future goals Everton have not finished higher than eighth in the Premier League since Pickford arrived and are in danger of missing European football for an eighth straight season. Pickford suggested sustained continental competition would ease external scrutiny over his decision to remain at Everton. He added: "Everton's been too far away from silverware and we've not won anything for so long - that's what we need back." He praised the club's progress toward a new stadium while expressing hope for a return to winning ways. ## World Cup focus as England prepare Everton's final home game of the season on Sunday against Sunderland will be followed by the season finale at Tottenham, before England head to North America for the 2026 World Cup. Pickford shared his excitement for the tournament, saying: "I can't wait, it's some experience." He described the pride his family feels, especially his mother, who tracks his call-ups and celebrates publicly when he is named. Pickford admitted the heat and travel will add challenges but insisted his mentality is unwavering: "Not once in all the tournaments will I pack my bag because I know we're going to win." ## Passion as England's driving force Pickford described himself as a passionate player who thrives under expectation, saying everyone may think he's too emotional but that intensity brings out his best. He reflected on growing up watching major tournaments in pubs and barbecues, saying nothing compares to the opportunity to play in them. He said: "I'm a fan. I've grown up watching Euros and World Cups.. there's nothing better than having that opportunity to play in them." He concluded with a winning mindset, insisting he believes England will go far in the tournament.