If Everton are to avoid relegation this season, they should drop Jordan Pickford and play Asmir Begovic in goal instead, according to Richard Keys.
Bosnian goalkeeper Begovic was in-between the sticks for the Blues' dramatic late 1-0 victory against Newcastle United at Goodison Park on March 17, but regular No. 1 Pickford returned to the starting line-up for Everton's 4-0 FA Cup loss at Cyrstal Palace three days later.
Pickford has made 27 appearances for the Toffees in all competitions this season, but with the club sitting just three points above the relegation zone, beIN sports presenter Keys believes that a change is needed in order to instil more confidence in Everton's defence.
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Writing in his own personal blog, Keys said: "He (Pickford) makes me nervous. Imagine playing in front of him. You’d s**t yourself. As a defender you’ve got to have total confidence in the guy behind you. That’s the last thing that Pickford inspires.
“The evidence is to be seen at Goodison week after week. If Everton want to stay up, they’d be better off playing Asmir Begovic. I’m told, after an impressive game v Newcastle, he would’ve kept his place for the cup tie at a Palace had he been fit. Watch this space and see what [Frank] Lampard does at the weekend.”
Everton will resume their Premier League campaign on Sunday when they face West Ham United and former Blues' boss David Moyes at the London Stadium.
Frank Lampard's side has the worst away record in the entire division, winning just once on the road all season, taking six points from 13 matches. In stark contrast, the Hammers have the fifth best home record in the Premier League.
Begovic has made six appearances for Everton this season, keeping two clean sheets.
