The Premier League was on fire over the course of this weekend.
Comeback wins, thrilling matches and surprise results, it almost had it all for anyone to have a blast watching it. However, one who wouldn’t be pleased with some of the developments is England manager Gareth Southgate. With the international break approaching, the gaffer has key decisions to make.
While England’s core is more or else settled for their UEFA Euro 2020 qualifiers, the goalkeeping department is still quite open. Southgate must’ve been hoping for some relief through a breakthrough performance from one of the contenders. Yet, Jordan Pickford’s horror-show and Tom Heaton conceding four at Anfield ruined his hopes.
Pickford let in poor goals through him, after conceding a penalty which should’ve resulted in a sending-off. Heaton was blown away at a windy Anfield by a Liverpool storm. While his priorities failed at their job, the other contender in Jack Butland impressed for Stoke City.
Butland gave a heroic performance against Queens Park Rangers, helping a 10-man Stoke side see through a point. Not only did he kept his second successive clean-sheet, yet he made some amazing saves with his towering presence to keep the Hoops at bay.
In current form, the Stoke City custodian looks clear favourite to start for England. However, lack of experience means that Pickford might get the chance. As polarizing performances deter his hopes of pre-selecting his side for the matches ahead, Southgate needs to be careful in selecting the most deserving candidates for what lies ahead.
England fans, who do you feel Southgate should select as the Three Lions goalkeeper? Join the discussion by commenting below.
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