Kyle Walker has praised fellow England teammate Jordan Pickford ahead of the Three Lions showdown with France this weekend.
Everton's number one has firmly established himself as Gareth Southgate's go-to guy during his tenure as national team boss, conceding just twice during his four appearances in Qatar thus far. Keeping three clean sheets along the way, the former Sunderland man will be hopeful of doing so once more against Les Blues on Saturday evening.
Walker, has formed part of a solid backline with Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and John Stones thus far, with Southgate having received his own plaudits for his selections, given the Three Lions poor form heading into the tournament. Walker however has waxed lyrical regarding the Toffees' shot-stopper, insisting his performances have been second to none for his country as a whole.
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“I think he’s been absolutely top class for England. I spend a lot of time with him outside of the training field and we get along really well,'' began Walker, as he previewed the Three Lions quarter-final clash with France earlier this week.
“I’ve got nothing but praise to say for Jordan and congratulations on getting your 50th cap on Saturday. Hopefully, he can put in the performances he’s been putting in for the last number of years.
“To move Joe Hart off the pedestal was a big statement for him to say he’s on the international stage,'' added Walker. ''He’s not let us down, he’s been fantastic and hopefully, that can continue for many years.”
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