“Major honour” to represent England at EURO2024, says Pickford

In a press conference from the training camp in Blankenhain, England’s number one Jordan Pickford expressed his readiness and excitement as the Three Lions head into what they hope will be a deep run at EURO2024. Pickford, participating in his fourth major tournament, reflected on his journey, team dynamics, and his role in the squad.

“It’s a major honour to be here again.

“I’ve got to keep performing, and it’s always exciting to be part of the England squad at a major tournament.

Leadership emerged as a key theme, with Pickford highlighting the importance of experienced players guiding the younger ones. “There are a lot of leaders on the pitch. A lot of players are club or vice-captains. Everyone is a leader in different ways, and that’s what we are good at.”

“We’ve got the right balance. With experience, we can help the younger lads who haven’t had as many caps. The senior lads have got to help those younger ones, but they are top players, and they don’t need much help.”

He praised Manchester City defender John Stones, who recently returned to training. “Stonesy is a top player, fit and ready to go. He’s one of the best centre-backs in the world.” Stones missed training due to illness but has bounced back, ready to contribute to the team’s efforts.

Addressing concerns about a changed defence, Pickford emphasised the adaptability and readiness of the squad. “It doesn’t affect us. Whoever plays, we are always ready and prepared. There’s a lot of lads I’ve played with anyway. Everyone is fighting for a spot.”

Southgate’s squad will open their campaign against Serbia in Group C this weekend knowing they are among the favourites for the grand prize. “To be a top, elite team you have got to enjoy that pressure. Apart from Russia in 2018, where there was no pressure on us, to be one of the favourites, you have got to enjoy that pressure.”

“For me, I prepare well, train properly, and give 100%. My preparation is already done come game day. I have ticked all of the boxes I need to tick throughout the week. When it’s game day, I am ready to go. The pressure is off and it’s just enjoyment.”

The keeper praised the team’s camaraderie as they seek to move past 2021’s runner-up heartbreak.

“Our togetherness is a number one key factor. We have a really good connection off the pitch, and that’s important. What the FA and England do behind the scenes at the base camp, the hard work that goes in, our togetherness is crucial.”
“We have that good craic with each other and demand off each other. That’s the spirit you want in the squad, to get the best out of each other, to be successful.”

Finally, Pickford reflected on the squad’s plans for the tournament opener between Germany and Scotland.

“We’ll watch it – it’s always enjoyable, the opening game, to get a feel for it. It’ll be packed, rocking and it’ll be up on the big screen somewhere to watch.”

Stay tuned for more updates on England’s progress at EURO2024 with our comprehensive coverage of the tournament.