Lack of genuine competition a problem for Everton after Jordan Pickford mistake

Add as preferred source on Google

Everton’s loss to Liverpool at the weekend was undoubtedly down to one man. Jordan Pickford made a hash of a looping volley from Virgil van Dijk. The result was an open goal for Divock Origi, who headed home the winner in the Merseyside derby.

Pickford has of course been a fantastic signing for Everton, even if there does appear to be an occasional mistake in him. He is a brilliant one-on-one stopper, penalty saver and his distribution is up there with the best in the world.

But his performance at the weekend did highlight one aspect of the Everton squad that should have Everton concerned. They don’t have enough depth in the goalkeeping department.

When Joel Robles left in the summer it was also expected that former World Cup finalist Maarten Stekelenburg might also be on his way. Instead, the Dutchman signed a new two-year deal at Goodison Park.

After an injury-ravaged previous season and after his struggles when given a chance, Everton fans were non-plussed by the development.

The Toffees did sign Joao Virginia from Arsenal, but the Portuguese youngster is considered one for the future.

When you look at the top teams in the Premier League, most have two top keeper options. David De Gea and Sergio Romero, Bernd Leno and Petr Cech, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Willy Caballero, Hugo Lloris and Michel Vorm.

Everton might need a more potent threat to Pickford’s position in order to keep him performing consistently under just the right amount of pressure. Right now, it is easy to see how complacency could settle in for the England stopper. When that happens, mistakes can easily follow.