Everton back Pickford as he sends defiant message before England return

Jordan Pickford expressed defiance about his international future, stating he is "only getting better" ahead of his return to England's starting lineup against Croatia in Rijeka. The 32-year-old Everton goalkeeper was benched for the opening two Nations League matches against Spain and Czechia under manager Thomas Tuchel, but he confirmed he has no intention of stepping away from international duty anytime soon.

Pickford cited veteran goalkeepers Gianluigi Buffon and Manuel Neuer as proof that players in his position can perform at the highest level until age 40. Tuchel handed Leeds goalkeeper James Trafford starts in the first two fixtures before reinstating Pickford, who holds 91 England caps and noted that Everton publicly endorsed his determined remarks on social media.