Pickford admits Newcastle fans got under his skin earlier this month

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Jordan Pickford says that the ‘abuse’ he received from Newcastle United fans impacted his game when Everton lost 3-2 at St James’ Park earlier this month, as per the Chronicle.

Pickford escaped a red card – somehow – after a reckless challenge on Salomon Rondon earns the hosts a penalty, which he saved, before an embarrassing second half collapse saw Newcastle earn victory from 2-0 down.

But as Pickford prepares to line up between the sticks for England against the Czech Republic tonight, he said: “52,000 Newcastle fans hurling abuse at you for the full game . .. too much stuff; it was just about being a Sunderland fan.

“That sort of language, maybe it did get to me a bit too much. But I’m only 25. It’s a learning curve. Next time I go there, I won’t be getting involved as much. When you turn your phone on, the first thing you do is go on Twitter or Instagram and see what you’ve been mentioned in.”

Pickford earned a lot of fans at this summer’s World Cup because he came across just like a fan; flawed, passionate and honest.

He showed those qualities again at St James’ Park. Getting involved in the chat with the fans is something that many supporters can relate to; but when he describes it as ‘abuse’ which put him off his game, then perhaps it would be wise to keep his head down next time.

Pickford is right that it’s a learning curve and he will have to learn how to deal with those big atmosphere as his career progresses.