Everton’s opening to the season has been a blend of encouraging displays and lingering frustrations. The Toffees have managed to avoid defeat at Hill Dickinson Stadium, with their latest home fixture ending in dramatic fashion after a late goal clinched victory over Crystal Palace. Jack Grealish’s debut goal for Everton electrified the Merseyside crowd, marking a much-needed win after a four-game streak without success in all competitions.

Earlier, Everton had settled for a 1-1 draw with West Ham. The result left some supporters disappointed, but the squad still delivered individual performances that caught attention. One player, in particular, has stood out to football legend Wayne Rooney, whose opinions on Everton carry significant weight among fans due to his history with the club.

Rooney, now a prominent pundit, frequently provides insightful commentary on Everton and has a reputation for honest but supportive analysis of David Moyes’ team. His latest remarks have focused on goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, whose displays this season have impressed the former England captain. Pickford, at 31, has already registered two clean sheets in the Premier League since the campaign began.

Despite Pickford’s consistent form and his status as England’s number one goalkeeper for over seven years, he often finds himself excluded from global conversations about the world’s top keepers. Rooney, speaking on Match of the Day on 8 October, challenged this narrative, stating: “When people talk about keepers worldwide, he doesn’t get mentioned often, but he is definitely up there.“

Pickford’s career at Everton has not always been straightforward. For years, he has endured criticism and doubt, even as his performances have become more reliable and mature. The former Sunderland man has repeatedly ranked among the Premier League’s leading shot-stoppers but rarely receives the recognition his abilities warrant.

Rooney’s public endorsement could help shift perceptions, both domestically and abroad. Praising Pickford so openly, especially from someone with Rooney’s stature, may prompt a broader appreciation of the goalkeeper’s contributions to Everton and his standing in world football.