Alan Kelly still remembers the first time he saw Jordan Pickford in action.
Everton’s goalkeeping coach was then working with Preston. England’s number one was with Carlisle. Just 20 back then, Pickford left an impression on his future guru - even though he conceded six.
The best part of a decade later, and in the midst of his second spell coaching him and as Pickford plays a key role in another international tournament, Kelly is once again taking immense pride in the success of the “fearless” talent he first saw on that spring day at Deepdale. To him there was no doubt his apprentice had the ability to reach the top. Now he has reached it, Kelly has no doubts Pickford deserves to be there.
