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Football

16th Sep 2024

Everton ‘look to axe Jordan Pickford’ with shock international replacement lined up

Jacob Entwistle

Sean Dyche is reportedly exploring other options.

Everton manager Sean Dyche is reportedly considering replacing goalkeeper Jordan Pickford after his side’s horrendous start to the season.

The Toffees have endured a nightmare first four games having surrendered 2-0 leads at the expense of Bournemouth and Aston Villa in recent weeks.

Dyche has been subsequently criticised by fans for a ‘lack of flexibility’ in his tactics and substitutions.

Bottom of the table, fan favourite Pickford has been the last player blamed by supporters.

However, Dyche is reportedly set to make a huge call and replace Pickford in the nets.

According to The Sun’s Alan Nixon, the Everton boss is considering to drop the player in January if his form does not improve.

And Dyche is said to be in fact targeting Pickford’s England international colleague – Nick Pope.

The Newcastle United number one played for Dyche at Burnley, establishing himself during his time at Turf Moor in The Three Lions setup.

Dyche has since reunited with James Tarkowski and Dwight McNeil at Goodison Park already – who both signed for the club before his arrival after relegation with the Clarets in 2022.

Pope was an integral part to the Clarets sides that finished 7th and 10th during Dyche’s stewardship and was second placed in the Golden Glove race of the 2019/20 season.

He has embedded himself as the Toon Army’s first choice once again following a long-term injury.

Newcastle United made an offer for England U21 keeper James Trafford in the summer – who is seen to be the long-term replacement of Pope – however an agreement on the valuation couldn’t be reached.

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