Jordan Pickford has been a stalwart for England, yet he still faces skepticism from critics who struggle to articulate their doubts. With nearly 87 caps to his name, Pickford is on the verge of surpassing Peter Shilton's record, yet some pundits remain unconvinced of his status as England’s number one goalkeeper.

Throughout his career, Pickford has consistently demonstrated his reliability, particularly in competitive matches. His performances in two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final have been pivotal in propelling the Three Lions to significant heights. However, some critics seem to overlook his achievements, perhaps due to his long tenure at Everton, a club that has not competed for major honors in recent years.

Critics often point to his distribution as a flaw, yet they fail to provide specific examples of his shortcomings. Pickford’s style of play, characterized by a flair for the dramatic, may not resonate with all fans, who often prefer goalkeepers that exhibit a more subdued demeanor. Nevertheless, his ability to play out from the back has been effective, with minimal misplaced passes during the current tournament.

While some pundits may argue that he needs a winner’s medal to solidify his legacy, this perspective undermines the complexities of goalkeeping. Pickford's contributions to the national team have been significant, and he deserves recognition as one of England's best goalkeepers in modern history.

As he prepares to earn his 87th cap against DR Congo, it’s time for fans and critics alike to appreciate Pickford's talents rather than focus on unfounded doubts. He belongs in the same elite category as other world-class goalkeepers, and his loyalty to Everton should not detract from his accomplishments with the national team.