‘Unpredictable yet unbeatable’ – Mary Earps breaks down Jordan Pickford’s three standout strengths as England’s World Cup No.1 prepares for Norway showdown

Iconic Lionesses goalkeeper Mary Earps has heaped praise on England star Jordan Pickford, highlighting his explosive power, precise long-range kicking, and unpredictable personality. After navigating a tough route to the quarter-finals — including a commanding display against Mexico — the Everton goalkeeper remains Gareth Southgate’s undisputed first-choice shot-stopper ahead of a high-stakes clash with Erling Haaland’s Norway.

Explosive power and tournament consistency

Earps elaborated on the key traits that make Pickford indispensable for England. The goalkeeper has featured in every World Cup match so far, keeping clean sheets against Ghana and Panama after conceding twice to Croatia. Despite letting in one goal against DR Congo in the round of 32, his overall form has been exceptional.

“I think he was unbelievable the other night,” Earps told Sky Sports. “He probably had a tricky start to the tournament — not quite the Jordan Pickford for England we’re used to seeing — but he was outstanding against Mexico, came for every cross. I’ve highlighted power because he covers the goal brilliantly. Everyone notices how he dives for every ball, even those well off target, and that’s part of his presence. He makes strikers think twice about their margins for error. He’s really explosive, not the tallest goalkeeper, but he covers the goal superbly.”

Direct distribution and Mexico masterclass

Pickford’s kicking ability has long been one of his trademarks, and Earps emphasised how crucial it is to England’s game plan. “He can boot that ball long!” she said. “When it comes to direct play, he gets England out of danger quite often. He looks for Harry Kane to hold the ball up or just to relieve pressure and gain territory. I’d describe him more as a long-ball striker than an intricate Ederson-type. It seemed a huge part of England’s strategy — not quite PSG-style kicking into touch — but definitely deliberate. The first 25 minutes were all about gaining ground, avoiding pressure, and not making silly mistakes that could hand Mexico opportunities.”

Despite conceding two goals in that last-16 tie against Mexico, his display was widely regarded as his best of the tournament so far.

Unpredictable nature and defensive grit

The third quality Earps identified was Pickford’s lively personality. “That’s one of my favourite things about watching him,” she admitted. “You never know what’s coming next — whether he’ll hold the ball at his feet for 10 extra seconds or give his defenders a proper rollicking. But I love that. It’s great to see goalkeepers with real character, and he’s got that in abundance. It really came through the other night. The defenders were excellent too, but he and Dan Burn, especially in the final 30 minutes, were taking crosses and defending for their lives.”

Looking ahead to the Norway clash

England now face a major test in the quarter-finals against Norway. Pickford will be tasked with stopping Erling Haaland, who has already netted seven goals in the tournament. The prolific Norwegian striker recently fired a brilliant brace to knock Brazil out with a 2-1 win in the last 16. The England squad are set for an intense training schedule this week as they gear up for the crucial quarter-final encounter.