Emmanuel Petit has expressed concerns over Jordan Pickford's performance in England's World Cup opener against Croatia, suggesting the goalkeeper could ultimately cost his country the tournament.
Petit's Verdict on Pickford
The former Arsenal midfielder and World Cup winner told talkSPORT: 'I was not really impressed by Pickford. I think he should have done better on the first goal, definitely. He made some saves, but I don't know, I don't feel it.'
Petit added: 'If you want to go until the end, you need to have one of the strongest goalkeepers in the competition. And that's my opinion. You may disagree with me, but I'm not really confident with him.'
England's Opening Victory
Thomas Tuchel's side secured a 4-2 win over Croatia in Dallas, with goals from Harry Kane (2), Jude Bellingham, and Marcus Rashford. However, the performance was far from perfect, with assistant coach Anthony Barry describing the first half as 'complicated and confusing' in a frank half-time interview.
Deeney Shares Petit's Fears
Former Watford striker Troy Deeney echoed Petit's concerns, telling CBS Sports: 'There's just that feeling when I watch Jordan... We're trying to win a World Cup. That's why we're here. In my opinion, and respectfully Jordan, because you know I like you. We can't win it with that guy in goal. He doesn't give you any confidence.'
Deeney also criticised Pickford's ball-handling and decision-making, particularly from set pieces.
Petit's Confidence in England
Despite his reservations about Pickford, Petit remains optimistic about England's chances. He praised the team's fluidity, movement, pace, and intensity, and singled out captain Harry Kane for his all-action display against Croatia.
'There is one player particularly that impressed me a lot and that's Harry Kane,' Petit said. 'You put aside the two goals he scored; it was his defensive work too. At the end of the game, he was the last defender and he put his body just in front of the striker. He's the leader of this team and you can see that it spreads to his teammates.'
Looking Ahead
England will face Ghana in Boston on Tuesday as they continue their World Cup campaign.
