Coleman says Everton 'would be in the Championship' without Jordan Pickford's performances in recent seasons | OneFootball

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Seamus Coleman has said he believes Everton would be in the Championship if it were not for Jordan Pickford in recent seasons.

Pickford's importance to Everton has rarely been in doubt, and Coleman believes the goalkeeper has been the difference between Premier League survival and relegation.

The England goalkeeper has been a consistent performer during a turbulent recent period at Everton, producing big saves at big moments during battles against the drop.

Former club captain Coleman was asked for his opinion on Pickford during a guest appearance on Sky Sports' Stick to Football.

"I do think Everton would be in the Championship without him. I think he was that important to us. When he came in at first he was young, he was kind of immature. But he's so professional. He plays every week, he's never injured. He's switched on and focused as well.

"Growing up watching England there has always been pressure on that number one spot. I can't really count too many mistakes that he's made for England. I do feel like they're always trying to get him out, but he keeps showing how good he is.

"His mentality is so strong. He's just a normal lad who just loves being in goal, and doesn't get bogged down with anything else."

“He loves it at Everton, and they love him too” — Coleman on Pickford’s mentality and loyalty

In perhaps predictable fashion, Coleman was asked why he thought Pickford had not often been 'linked with a move away'. Coleman said he wasn't aware if any transfer approaches had happened behind the scenes, but said Pickford 'loves' being at Everton.

"I'm not sure if it's happened behind the scenes but he does love it at the football club. I think he loves being loved, and the fans absolutely love him. I don't know if it's anything that's ever came about, but I do know that he loves it at Everton, and they love him too. They absolutely idolise him and he's been unbelievable for us."