‘Jordan Pickford has never let England down, he deserves to start!’ – Chris Kirkland backs Everton goalkeeper to keep No.1 jersey at Euro 2020

Jordan Pickford 'has never let England down' and should remain as England's No.1 for Euro 2020 this summer.

That is the view of former England international Chris Kirkland, who has told talkSPORT that none of the other goalkeeper contenders have done enough to oust Pickford from his starting role.

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On Tuesday, Gareth Southgate named a provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2020, with four goalkeepers chosen in his initial group which will be cut to 26 next week.

Everton's Pickford, Manchester United's Dean Henderson, West Brom's Sam Johnstone and Sheffield United's Aaron Ramsdale have all been selected.

However, it is understood the Toffees glovesman remains Southgate's preferred No.1 - despite his mixed form at club level throughout the 2020/21 season.

Nick Pope has started England's last three games but Pickford is back in the frame after the Burnley man was cruelly ruled out of the competition through injury.

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Pickford was an ever-present for England until that period and was impressive as the Three Lions reached the World Cup semi-final in 2018.

And Kirkland is adamant he has done nothing wrong for his country to be dropped for any of the other 'keepers.

The ex-Liverpool and Wigan goalkeeper told talkSPORT 2: “I’m a goalkeeper and I may be biased, but I can’t remember when Jordan Pickford has let England down - and I’m not sure if you can.

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“He’s performed well for England, obviously there’s pressure on him but he’s managed to keep it going and perform well.

“There would have been more pressure if Nick Pope had been fit."

He added: “Obviously Pope played the last few games when Jordan was injured, but Jordan has experience.

“He’s never let England down for me. Yes, his Everton form is poor at times but I think he finished the season strong with Everton.

“He’s had a bit of a blip and the injury wass hampering him during the season.

“He’s never let England down and did well at the last World Cup so I expect him to start for England come the first game.”