Jordan Pickford has been England's first-choice goalkeeper since 2018, performing heroically for his country on many occasions. However, the name on the back of his shirt at the current World Cup could have read 'Pigford' had his father not taken decisive action.
Family Name Change
Pickford's father, Lee, was raised as Lee Pigford but legally altered his name through deed poll after enduring bullying at school. He was mercilessly taunted and nicknamed 'Piggy', leading him to ensure his future offspring would be spared the same torment. Jordan's grandfather, Barrie, still bears the Pigford surname but remains immensely proud of his grandson.
Rise to Stardom
Pickford progressed through the youth system at his hometown club Sunderland, with his parents abandoning their Newcastle allegiance due to his passion for the Black Cats. After six loan spells away from the north east, he secured a £25 million transfer to Everton in 2017, launching his England career. He became No. 1 after Gareth Southgate picked him ahead of Joe Hart and hasn't looked back, excelling in five major international tournaments.
Grandfather's Pride
Barrie told the Mail in 2018: "I'm over the moon for him, I am. I never thought he would play for England. It is the best thing he did leaving Sunderland - going to Everton was a good thing for him. He's doing good, I'm pleased for him. He's six foot four, so he's a big lad, but he's quiet. He doesn't brag or nothing. When he comes home he is the same as normal. He's a quiet kid really. I think the world of him."
World Cup Ambitions
Pickford has earned 89 caps for his country and has been a standout performer, most recently playing his part in England's 3-2 victory over Mexico to secure a World Cup quarter-final berth. He believes manager Thomas Tuchel has embedded a winning mentality into the squad, saying: "Belief, togetherness... I think we have had that previously, but I think the manager's got that belief in us. The meetings the manager has with us, it is like you are ready to go to war. He puts that belief in you. There are different meetings he has tactically, and it is like 'Yeah, it is go time.' We all want the same goal, we all want that end goal, and this squad he has picked, we are all in good spirits, and all in good moments in our career."
