Our under 18 goalkeeper has picked up a prestigious reward. http://www.safc.com/news/20110808/pickfords-fine-form-rewarded_2256213_2413355 Young star Jordan Pickford's fine form during the Otten Cup campaign has secured him the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award. The England under-18 international was voted as the tournament's top stopper ahead of players from the likes of PSV, Ajax and Barcelona. Pickford was superb throughout the tournament, which took place over the weekend, winning particular praise from organisers for his performance during the 1-1 draw with Ajax. The keeper's citation read: "Pickford has shown to be an excellent goalkeeper with good reflexes. In addition, he does not seem to feel uncomfortable moving out of the goal. "He showed great technical skills from goal kicks, getting his team right back into the game, and during moments like this Sunderland's play was not to be underestimated." Pickford, who was born in Washington, starred in the Under-18 World Cup during the summer and was selected for Sunderland's senior training camp in Germany last month. While the youngster didn't play any games on the Continent, he impressed throughout the eight-day camp and won praise for his performances in training. Academy manager Ged McNamee said: "Obviously we're delighted at this news, particularly as the Otten Cup is such a high-calibre tournament. "Jordan was on top form during a tough trip which was a really good test for our young squad. "This award is another big plus for Jordan after he was taken on the first-team tour as well as gaining international experience at the Under-18 World Cup." Fantastic news, and yet another one to keep an eye on for the future.
