The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Everton’s Jordan Pickford: ‘Our focus has to be staying home and protecting the NHS’
Premier League is suspended along with most sport around the world amid coronavirus pandemic
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has stressed that the priority for Premier League footballers during the coronavirus pandemic must be staying at home and protecting the NHS.
The English game has been suspended until 30 April at the earliest along with most sporting competitions around the world, and Pickford told Everton’s official club website that while players may feel restless, they have a duty to remain at home and look out for healthcare staff in Britain.
“I am currently back in the North East with my partner Megan, my son, mum and dad, and my dog. Obviously, we’d love to be playing football right now, but with the current situation there’s a bigger picture to think of around the world.
“Everyone’s doing their duty as a nation of people, and the NHS has been phenomenal.
“I joined everyone in my parents’ street to applaud our doctors and nurses and every other NHS worker on Thursday night. It was a nice touch to recognise what they are doing at this time and demonstrate how we are all thinking about them. We need to take care of ourselves and do what’s best for the nation and for the world.
“I’m missing the day-to-day banter with the lads and staff at USM Finch Farm, but as I say, there’s a bigger picture right now and the focus has to be to save lives and do our job of staying home and protecting the NHS.”
Pickford also spoke about how players at Everton have adapted to new training measures amid the Covid-19 lockdown.
“As players, we have individual training programmes and all the medical and fitness staff have been brilliant in helping us. Someone is always on the end of the phone if I need them. We know Everton is a great club and everyone’s always helping each other.
“I saw the video of the young keeper training in his garden. I think I’ll have to encourage my dad to get his boots back on and help me do things like that!”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments