Proud Pickford gets a buzz with every call-up

FROM JOHN CROSS in Riga JORDAN PICKFORD gets a text from his mum after every England call-up.

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As the goalkeeper prepares to win his 80th cap against Latvia tonight, it shows just what representing England means to him and his family eight years after making his senior debut.

Pickford deserves to go down as one of England's best No.1s, having matured from a hotheaded kid into a calm and consistent presence on the pitch.

He has yet to concede a goal in England's qualifying campaign as the Three Lions look to clinch their World Cup place with victory against Latvia tonight.

The Everton keeper said: "That's the best thing, every time you get that England call-up you should be proud.

"Me mam texts me after the announcement comes out, 'Well done', 'Congrats', every time.

"I just love being here at England and every time I'm on the training pitch, I want to improve.

"Every time I get the nod to put the England shirt on it's always a proud moment for me and I'll do my best for England like I feel I've done over eight years."