England and Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has delivered an unexpectedly intriguing assessment of his international colleagues, identifying a surprising figure as the finest finisher in the squad outside the traditional forward line. While Harry Kane—England’s all-time leading goalscorer—remains the undisputed benchmark for clinical ability, Pickford suggested that another player possesses a refined striking technique worthy of far greater acclaim.
Pickford’s comments came shortly after he achieved a historic milestone during England’s 2-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Serbia at Wembley. With that clean sheet, the 31-year-old surpassed Peter Shilton’s long-standing record, becoming the first England goalkeeper to complete nine consecutive competitive matches without conceding. Already the holder of the most clean sheets in major tournaments for the Three Lions, Pickford continues to fortify his status as one of the nation’s most reliable performers.
Speaking at the opening of Sports Direct’s flagship store in Liverpool, Pickford revealed that Declan Rice—widely admired for his midfield authority—possesses finishing qualities rarely associated with a player in his position. He praised Rice’s distinctive ball-striking technique, describing a “whip” in his shooting motion, and referenced the midfielder’s Champions League exploits as evidence of his evolving attacking threat. According to Pickford, Rice’s precision and composure rank him just behind England’s “natural goalscorers” such as Kane and Bukayo Saka.
Rice’s emergence as a multifaceted midfielder has been underscored by his productivity since joining Arsenal for £105 million in 2023. His expanded role has produced a notable increase in goal contributions, with the 26-year-old recording 18 goals and 25 assists in 120 appearances for the Gunners—figures that eclipse his output during his time at West Ham. His technical evolution, combined with his defensive intelligence, has rendered him indispensable for both club and country.
Both Pickford and Rice appear set to play pivotal roles in England’s campaign at the 2026 World Cup in North America. Pickford reiterated that lifting a major international trophy remains the foremost ambition of his career, surpassing even his desire to guide Everton to long-awaited silverware. As England prepare to resume their qualifying journey against Albania, the duo stand among the core of players tasked with ending the nation’s decades-long pursuit of global glory.
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