Pickford taunts Maddison after bottle tactic results in penalty miss

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has advised James Maddison to “learn his lesson” after his penalty miss on Monday. Maddison noticed his effort saved by his England team-mate as Leicester drew 2-2 with the Toffees on the King Power Stadium.

Leicester have been handed a golden alternative to go 3-1 up late within the first half. Michael Keane dealt with the ball in his personal field and Michael Oliver had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.

But Pickford stood nonetheless and saved Maddison’s effort which was tamely struck down the center. After the save, cameras picked up the homework that Pickford had caught to the aspect of his water bottle.

It steered that Maddison shoots his penalties down the center 60 per cent of the time. Pickford has revealed he selected Monday morning that he would not dive.

And he has taunted Maddison by claiming he ought to cease enjoying “poker” along with his spot-kicks. Pickford advised Sky Sports: “Madders, he needs to learn his lesson. Don’t play poker by the sounds of it.

“To be honest I do my homework, I known as it this morning the place I used to be going to go. But no, he is an excellent participant and he’ll anticipate me to make motion.

“He’s got great delivery, if he whips it or opens up I think he expects me to dive, so I’ve double-bluffed him and gone one up on him. So yeah, it was a big moment in the game and quite happy I saved it because that’s what I’m there to do, you know, try and help my team-mates out if they make mistakes.

“Sometimes it is harsh, the penalty, however I’ll strive my finest to get them out of hassle. Yeah he does [go down the middle most of the time], the cameraman was good tonight!”

Former Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel was in the Sky Sports studio. At half-time he paid tribute to Pickford’s save.