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Ex-England goalkeeper Paul Robinson thinks Jordan Pickford should keep his Three Lions starting spot

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England manager Gareth Southgate will be concerned by the form of Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford ahead of the upcoming international matches.

The Three Lions have two Euro 2020 qualifiers – against Czech Republic and Montenegro – at the end of March.

But a new debate has recently opened up: should Pickford keep his number one spot after a catalogue of errors in recent matches?

Judging by his latest performance, the 25-year-old needs a rest. He made three high-profile errors; one that led to a missed penalty and two that costed Everton goals.

This was the catalyst for Newcastle’s comeback victory over the Toffees, coming from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at St James’ Park.

But 41-cap former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson believes Pickford deserves to remain as England’s number one.

Paul Robinson of England during the international friendly match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium in London, England, U.K. (Photo by Ben Radford/Corbis via Getty Images)

Robinson told Sky Sports News: “I genuinely think he’s England’s No 1 goalkeeper at the moment. Is he the best in the Premier League? There are probably a few goalkeepers in better form than him at the moment.

“But is he England’s No 1 for the next internationals? Absolutely, yes he is. He’s earned that right.”

The ex-Leeds, Tottenham and Blackburn goalkeeper added that Pickford needs to come through his bad spell by being mentally strong.

Pickford does face a battle to convince Southgate to keep the faith with him, though, after his recent performances for Everton.

The ex-Sunderland stopper faces competition from Burnley’s Tom Heaton and Southampton duo Angus Gunn and Alex McCarthy for the goalkeeper spot.