Troy Deeney, a former Premier League striker and SunSport columnist, has expressed his skepticism about England's chances of winning the World Cup, primarily due to goalkeeper Jordan Pickford's performance. Deeney, working as a pundit for CBS in New York during the World Cup, appeared on SunSport’s Proper Football Daily Show, where he identified Pickford as England's Achilles heel.
Deeney believes that Pickford's erratic behavior and lack of a calming influence make him a liability for the team. He argues that Pickford doesn't make him feel calm like Alisson does for Brazil, and that his small stature and unpredictability make him a risk for the team. Deeney also points out that Pickford's lack of a transfer to a top club suggests that he is not considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
Despite England's impressive second-half performance against Croatia, Deeney is concerned about the team's defensive capabilities. He suggests that the team needs to improve its defensive play and that bringing on players like Marcus Rashford and Morgan Rogers can help them get at their opponents. Deeney also believes that Rashford's motivation to prove himself after a difficult season at Manchester United could be a positive for the team.
Overall, Deeney's commentary highlights the importance of a strong goalkeeper and defensive play in winning the World Cup. He remains skeptical about England's chances, but acknowledges that Pickford's performance and the team's overall improvement could still lead to a successful outcome.
