If the gossip of clubs interested in Mannone is true and he goes in January, it would seem sensible to bring Pickford back as No.2. If Mannone stays, leave Pickford where is for the season, Mannone can go in the summer and move him up then. Looking at this from a different angle (As I usually do I know.) It`s not just about warming the bench. It`s also about being ready to take over in case of injury. If Pants is injured I would prefer to see Pickford come on rather than Mannone. Just my opinion of course and hoying it into the mix.
Chris Kirkland exclusive column please log in to view this image North End goalkeepers Jordan Pickford and Chris Kirkland with aspiring PNE No.1 Callum Dooley aged 13 2HAVE YOUR SAY I have worked alongside a number of top class goalkeepers in my career and I have to say that Jordan Pickford is up there with the best. He has got a great chance of going right to the top and his performances for Preston this season have been top-drawer. Goalkeepers should make saves, after all, that is their job, but the thing which has really caught my eye is his command of the penalty area. Jordan comes out to take crosses and has an authority for someone still very young. As for his kicking, that is brilliant! I have never seen anyone kick a ball like he does. Even when I was 21, I couldn’t kick a ball as far as Jordan can. He has a real willingness to learn and a good career is in front of him. There has been a lot of talk about Sunderland recalling him from his loan with us. I hope he stays here but if he does go back, Jordan could play a key part in Sunderland’s attempts to stay up in the Premier League. At Jordan’s age, you tend to be fearless on the pitch and that is a big help. It is only later on when you get a bit older that you start to worry about making mistakes. The way Jordan has played means I have sat on the bench since joining Preston in the summer. I have no problem with that, when I signed I knew I would be No.2 to him – it was a decision I was happy with.
After watching Mannone against Exeter and Man City, I'd rather have my 11 year old in goal before him FFS. Can;t work it out cos in the cup final season he looked a very good keeper! Pickford back to play in the cup game(s) and, if he proves himself, he gets the number 1 spot. Pantilimon is so bereft of confidence at the minute it's terrifying sometimes! Someone had a stat the other week - he makes more saves per game than any other keeper in the league! All well and good but when he palms the ball into the path of an oncoming attacker,what's the point in saving the first one!!
That's the bit that worries me if it's an indicator that we are 'allowing' more shots on target than anyone else - we need to stop opposition getting shots away - law of averages dictates that he's gonna make a mistake that can be capitalised on.
