Pickford feels lucky ahead of early Black Cats return

Jordan Pickford admits he is thanking his lucky stars as he appears set to make a miraculous recovery from a knee ligament injury.

The England Under-21 goalkeeper was expected to be out for two months but, following a successful rehabilitation process, the Black Cats could see him back in action after just a four week lay-off, as he hopes to be in contention for Sunderland’s trip to Goodison Park in two weeks’ time.

This will be met with smiles on Wearside as Pickford was in fine form before sustaining the injury in a 3-1 loss to Manchester United on Boxing Day when he collided with team-mate Papy Djilobodji.

Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images

Before his set-back, the stopper was influential in his side picking up valuable points against relegation rivals AFC Bournemouth, Hull City and Leicester City.

A product of Sunderland’s academy, Pickford revealed at the North East Football Writers’ Awards, which saw him named 2016’s Young Player of the Year, that his return is imminent.

“The knee is fine now,” said Pickford. “I’ve had a good six to eight weeks off but I’ve been working really hard in the gym and getting my knee right and its fine now.

“Hopefully, I’ll be ready for Everton.

“My cruciate could have snapped but it’s still intact so I think I’ve got away with one there.”