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England: 5 players Gareth Southgate absolutely must take to Euro 2021

By Richard Tynan

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: A general view of Wembley stadium advertising the Euro's football tournament on March 20, 2020 in London, England. Coronavirus (Covid-19) has spread to at least 182 countries, claiming over 10,000 lives and infecting almost 250,000. There have now been 3,269 diagnosed cases in the UK and 144 deaths. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: A general view of Wembley stadium advertising the Euro's football tournament on March 20, 2020 in London, England. Coronavirus (Covid-19) has spread to at least 182 countries, claiming over 10,000 lives and infecting almost 250,000. There have now been 3,269 diagnosed cases in the UK and 144 deaths. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) /
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Nick Pope, Burnley
Nick Pope, Burnley (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /

Nick Pope

Throughout the 2019/20 season thus far, Nick Pope’s goalkeeping masterclass has been second to none.

11 clean sheets in 29 appearances (the most in the league) for Burnley has translated into 11 wins for the side and a well-deserved 10th place.

In comparison,  Jordan Pickford’s stats (6 clean sheets in 29 apps, resulting in 10 wins) coupled with Everton’s 12th place standing (2 points behind Burnley) leaves me wondering one question above all.

Is it that Pickford is holding Everton back? Or is Pope driving Burnley higher than they otherwise should be?

Upon closer inspection, we find that Pickford has made 1 more officially noted error leading to a goal than Pope whilst also conceding 6 more than his Burnley rival.

No surprise then that many have questioned Pickford’s position as England’s no. 1.

"“I don’t need to see the stats. I know he is not a good goalkeeper”. – Roy Keane (quote via Sky Sports)"

Overall, I would move to start Pope in goal for England. Certainly, however, I would take Pickford to the Euros, too.

Not only would he be an acceptable backup to Pope, but he would also provide an experienced, energetic and motivational voice in the dressing room.

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