Jordan Pickford can take England all the way to the Euro 2020 final, says his former PE teacher as he praises 'inspirational' Lions keeper

Jordan Pickford’s former PE teacher has praised the England number one for his performances in Euro 2020 – and believes the Wearside-born keeper could help take England all the way to the final.
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Alan Fisher taught the international star at St Robert of Newminster Catholic School in Washington more than 11 years ago, and is full of pride to see his former pupil representing England at Euro 2020.

Pickford has kept three clean sheets in three games so far in the competition and his performances have been key to England’s qualification through the group stage.

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Speaking about Pickford and the impact he’s had on the school, Mr Fisher said: “Jordan was always a very focused young lad.

England's goalkeeper Jordan Pickford makes a save during the UEFA EURO 2020 Group D football match between Czech Republic and England at Wembley Stadium in London on June 22, 2021. (Photo by Matt Dunham / POOL / AFP)England's goalkeeper Jordan Pickford makes a save during the UEFA EURO 2020 Group D football match between Czech Republic and England at Wembley Stadium in London on June 22, 2021. (Photo by Matt Dunham / POOL / AFP)
England's goalkeeper Jordan Pickford makes a save during the UEFA EURO 2020 Group D football match between Czech Republic and England at Wembley Stadium in London on June 22, 2021. (Photo by Matt Dunham / POOL / AFP)

"His name is known throughout the school and he’s an inspiration to all the pupils that come through. It goes to show how far hard work and sometimes a bit of luck can get you.”

Pickford’s performances in goal so far has earned him praise from the media and his manager, and Mr Fisher believes Pickford is only going to get better.

He added: “Being a goalkeeper is one of those positions that’s quite hard to keep.

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"He hasn’t put a foot wrong as an England player, so from a school point of view we’re very proud of him, and obviously being a lad from Washington to go on and be England’s number one for over three years now is just amazing.

Jordan Pickford while at schoolJordan Pickford while at school
Jordan Pickford while at school

“He’s turned into a really mature lad and is looking very calm and focused. We always have it in our PE lessons, someone always wants to be Jordan Pickford and his name is always mentioned which shows the impact he’s had.”

After topping their group, England will now go on to face Germany at Wembley on Tuesday, June 29, and Mr Fisher believes England and his former pupil have what it takes to reach the final and bring football home.

He said: “I think there's a good chance England and Jordan can go all the way. The next tie is the big one and if they can get through that then they’ll really have some momentum. To see Jordan get to that final would just be amazing.”

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