Jordan Pickford's dad 'changed his name' to stop Everton star 'getting teased'

Jordan Pickford’s Everton shirt could have adorned a different surname if his dad hadn’t changed it by deed poll as a schoolboy.

Pickford's name could have had a different ring to it if his father's childhood had taken a slightly different path, with the Everton goalkeeper potentially being branded Jordan Pigford. Classmates had originally given his dad Lee the not-so-kind nickname up in the North East.

To dodge the 'piggy' taunts from his peers, according to the Express, Pickford's father made the decision early on to alter his name by deed poll, substituting the 'g' for a 'ck'. Family backing for the shot-stopper has always been unwavering, and reflecting on the keeper's career back in 2018, Pickford's grandfather couldn't hide his pride.

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"I'm over the moon for him, I am," he told the Daily Mail back in 2018. "I never thought he would play for England. It is the best thing he did leaving Sunderland - going to Everton was a good thing for him."

"He's doing good, I'm pleased for him. He's six foot four, so he's a big lad, but he's quiet. He doesn't brag or nothing. When he comes home he is the same as normal. He's a quiet kid really. I think the world of him."

Pickford earned his 21st appearance at a major tournament on Thursday night as England were held to a 1-1 draw with Denmark. As a result of the appearance, the former Sunderland man surpassed Peter Shilton (20) for the most games played by an England goalkeeper.