Neville picks between Ramsdale and Pickford for England goalkeeper

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Gary Neville has told Sky Sports that Jordan Pickford has to get the nod for England ahead of Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale at the World Cup despite his form for Everton this season.

Ramsdale has been one of the surprises of the season for the Gunners. Arsenal were ridiculed by many for pursuing the 23-year-old in the summer following Sheffield United’s relegation. But they are not laughing now.

He has been outstanding for Mikel Arteta’s side. And his form has not gone unnoticed by Gareth Southgate. He made his debut for England in their emphatic win over San Marino. Unsurprisingly, he was given little to do.

For Pickford meanwhile, this season has not been an easy one. Everton are in big trouble of being relegated from the Premier League. And his form has not been overly impressive.

‘Don’t think he deserves to lose his space’

Pickford has tended to be the number one goalkeeper for England. And he has justified that faith with a number of brilliant displays for the Three Lions. He was brilliant as they reached the World Cup semi-final in 2018, and the Euro 2020 final three years later.

They have both been named in the latest squad for the upcoming break. And Neville has now been asked which one he would have as the number one England goalkeeper at the World Cup.

“You have to go with Pickford because I think his England performances have been very good to be fair, generally over three or four years. I’m not saying it’s always been great for Everton, sometimes it has. But his form for England I think has been very good,” he told Sky Sports.

“He suits England, the way in which the game’s played at international level, distribution from the back. He’s got a good rapport. His form has been good with England, better than I thought it ever would be. And I don’t think he deserves to lose his space yet personally, even though Ramsdale’s doing an absolutely brilliant job here at Arsenal.”

Ramsdale still developing may count against him in race to be number one England goalkeeper

Ramsdale has been a revelation with Arsenal. However, he is not yet the finished article. There have been a few nervy moments.

He will be disappointed with the opener he conceded against Liverpool on Wednesday, for example.

It appears to be imperative that Southgate gives Ramsdale a chance to show what he can do. If Pickford is going to get the chance to keep the jersey based on his England form alone, Ramsdale must get another opportunity to audition for the goalkeeper spot.