ENGLAND STAR JORDAN PICKFORD'S DAD CHANGED FAMILY SURNAME AFTER BEING CRUELLY TEASED

Jordan Pickford has made a name for himself as England’s No1 goalkeeper since 2018 – yet that name could have been different but for the actions of his dad.

Pickford was born in Sunderland in March 1994 to father Lee and mother Sue and came through the ranks at his boyhood club after being scouted. He developed a love for Sunderland – so much so that his parents had to switch their allegiances from rivals Newcastle – and after earning his stripes on six loan spells he earned a £25million move to Everton in June 2017.

He has been there ever since, establishing himself as one of the Premier League ’s best shot-stoppers and becoming Gareth Southgate ’s first pick between the posts. But interestingly, he could have been known as Jordan Pigford, were it not for his dad Lee.

Lee grew up as Lee Pigford, but decided to change his name by deed poll while at school after experiencing bullying due to his surname. He was cruelly called “piggy” and didn’t want the same for any of his future children.

Nevertheless, Pickford’s grandfather still carries that name. Barrie Pigford told MailOnline 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.”

Pickford took the gloves from Joe Hart when Southgate took over as manager ahead of the 2018 and has not surrendered them since. He is the undisputed No1 ahead of Aaron Ramsdale and Dean Henderson at Euro 2024 and, speaking ahead of the tournament, he is clear about his goals.

“I’ve got 61 caps now,” he said. “I work hard off the pitch, I do everything to my best ability, I always want to improve. That’s why this is my fourth major tournament, it’s why I’ve won Everton ’s player-of-the-year three years in a row.

“I know what I’m doing. I know I keep getting better - and hopefully this tournament is a success. We have come here to win but we can’t look beyond the opening game. It’s so important to get off to a good start.”

‌Pickford has made 279 appearances for Everton since joining from Sunderland seven years ago. But he had to fight his way to the top, spending time on loan at Darlington, Alfreton, Burton, Carlisle, Braford and Preston while on the books at Sunderland. He played for England right through the age groups, winning the prestigious Toulon Tournament in 2016 and now wants to add the European Championship medal to his collection.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

2024-06-22T11:59:57Z dg43tfdfdgfd