Tuchel Praises Pickford After Record-Breaking Clean Sheet Run For England

‎England manager, Thomas Tuchel, praised Jordan Pickford’s composure and adaptability after the goalkeeper set a new record in England’s 3-0 win over Wales at Wembley on Thursday.

‎The Everton shot-stopper kept his eighth consecutive clean sheet for his country in the friendly match.

‎Pickford surpassed the mark he previously shared with legendary goalkeeper Gordon Banks. He is now the first England men’s keeper to record eight straight shutouts in full 90-minute appearances.

‎England stormed to their eighth straight win against Wales, with goals from Morgan Rogers, Ollie Watkins, and Bukayo Saka effectively ending the contest within 20 minutes.

‎Tuchel, who took charge of England in January, commended Pickford’s ability to remain sharp after being largely untested for long stretches of the game.

‎”It’s not easy to stay focused in a dominant first half like that. Have basically nothing to do,” Tuchel said.

‎”And then suddenly, I think in the 42nd minute, there’s a situation where it always can be dangerous. And second half, he had a very difficult save to close his legs very fast.

‎”He’s a fantastic shot stopper. There is no doubt about it. Today there was a challenge for him because they pressed us high. And we want to escape the pressing.

‎”We want to have the chance to escape the pressing, also with short passes, and not only with long shots from him. So, he did very well.

‎”He kept his composure. He kept calm. This is basically what we demand of him. He stayed calm, kept his focus.”

‎The German also praised Pickford’s ability to adapt to his tactical demands.

‎”It’s like, always a team effort, and I think he’s happy to share this with at least the defenders in front of him. But with a defensive approach that we make it the least saves possible from him, but he’s doing good,” Tuchel added.

‎”Well done, congratulations. Fantastic achievement.”