Troy Deeney claims Jordan Pickford will stop England winning the World Cup

Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney has claimed England cannot win the 2026 World Cup with Jordan Pickford as their first-choice goalkeeper, despite the Three Lions opening the tournament with an impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia.

Pickford earned his 85th England cap in Dallas as Thomas Tuchel's side made a strong start to their World Cup campaign, but his performance has sparked differing opinions among pundits and former players.

While some praised the Everton goalkeeper's composure, Deeney believes England's hopes of lifting the trophy could ultimately be undermined by their long-serving number one.

Speaking on CBS Sports, Deeney questioned whether Pickford provides enough confidence to those in front of him.

The former Watford forward was particularly critical of England's first goal conceded against Croatia and argued that the goalkeeper should have done better.

"I still think he should have saved the first one, that's my opinion. I think when you get a hand to it, it's got to be a solid hand and keep it out."

Deeney then expanded on his concerns, suggesting Pickford's overall demeanour creates uncertainty.

"There's just that feeling when I watch Jordan… there's a shot from 50 yards and it trickles to him and he's screaming at everyone, 'Do your job! Don't let any shots come in!'"

The strongest criticism came when Deeney questioned England's chances of winning the tournament.

"We're trying to win a World Cup. That's why we're here. In my opinion, and respectfully Jordan, because you know I like you. We can't win it with that guy in goal. He doesn't give you any confidence."

Deeney's comments are likely to divide opinion given Pickford's long-standing importance to the national team.

Since making his England debut in 2017, the Everton goalkeeper has remained the undisputed first choice under both Gareth Southgate and Thomas Tuchel.

Pickford has consistently delivered strong performances on the biggest stages, helping the team reach deep into international competitions.

His distribution, leadership and ability to produce important saves have frequently been praised by coaches and teammates alike.

That reputation makes Deeney's criticism particularly striking.

One player who strongly disagrees with Deeney is Harry Maguire.

The Manchester United defender, who has shared a dressing room with Pickford for years at international level, was impressed by the goalkeeper's display against Croatia.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football, Maguire highlighted Pickford's calmness in possession and his role in England's build-up play.

"I think Picks today was really calm. Really, really calm under pressure."

Maguire also praised Tuchel's tactical setup, arguing that England's ability to play through pressure was a key factor behind their victory.

The contrasting opinions highlight how differently Pickford's performances can be interpreted.

Goalkeepers are often judged more harshly than outfield players, and Pickford remains one of England's most debated figures despite nearly a decade as the national team's first choice.

For Tuchel, however, there appears little doubt over who will start between the posts moving forward.

England's head coach has repeatedly shown confidence in Pickford, and nothing from the opening match suggests a change is under consideration.

England will now prepare for their second group-stage fixture, with Pickford expected to retain his place as Tuchel's number one.

The debate surrounding the goalkeeper is unlikely to disappear, but the England coaching staff will be far more concerned with building on a winning start than responding to outside criticism.

If England continue progressing through the tournament, Pickford will have further opportunities to answer his critics on the biggest stage of all.

Do you agree with Troy Deeney, or has Jordan Pickford already proven he can help England win a major tournament?