George Pickford destined to follow in Jordan Pickford's footsteps as Everton gem in line for award
George Pickford stepping up to the Everton senior team in the upcoming campaigns seems almost inevitable because of his namesake.
Despite no relation between the two, supporters at the Hill Dickinson Stadium are excited for the 19-year-old's development on Merseyside, and they have every right to be.
The goalkeeper joined Southport on a one-month loan earlier in the 2025-26 season, where he made eight appearances, before returning to the Toffees for the remaining months of the campaign.
Jordan Pickford has been Everton's No.1 for the last nine seasons, with no signs of a change coming in between the sticks, but David Moyes certainly has a player for the future in the youngster.
David Moyes to take notice of George Pickford
The 19-year-old has made a total of 25 appearances for Everton Under-21s this season, even managing to keep six clean sheets in Premier League 2 and save a penalty.
In fact, his performances have certainly been noticed. Pickford has been nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Season award, alongside multiple talented academy stars.
Chelsea's Shim Mheuka and Liverpool's Kieran Morrison are amongst the nominees, as well as being joined by Everton teammate Braden Graham.
| Jordan Pickford's Premier League 2 | Stats [FotMob] |
| Games played | 14 |
| Goals conceded | 23 |
| Clean sheets | 6 |
| Penalties saved | 1 |
| Save percentage | 66.7% |
| Successful passes | 72.3% |
| Errors leading to goal | 2 |
Undoubtedly, there is a lot of room for improvement when it comes to Pickford. However, the early signs are positive, and many would argue that he deserves a shot at stardom on Merseyside.
The Toffees need a long-term plan for Jordan Pickford
Everton's first-choice goalkeeper is only 32 years of age, so he likely has many years ahead of him at the Hill Dickinson, but the Toffees need to make a long-term plan.
All of his back-ups over the years have been unable to shake him off the top spot, always seeking an exit rather than fighting for the position. Promotion from within would make the most sense now.
Mick Brown revealed to Football Insider that Everton want to keep Pickford for the foreseeable future, and the England international could help bring through fresh blood in upcoming seasons.
Should his namesake win the Premier League 2 award, Moyes simply can't ignore the 19-year-old. Pickford should be the next academy star to rise through the ranks.