Jordan Pickford has revealed he is hoping to be in contention for Sunderland’s trip to Everton in two weeks time.
The young stopper has been on the treatment table since December after picking up an injury in the Black Cats’ 3-1 defeat at Manchester United on Boxing Day.
Pickford, 22, established himself between the posts in August 2016 when Italian keeper Vito Mannone was ruled out with a long term elbow injury.
Renowned for his kicking, the Washington-born goalkeeper produced a number of eye catching performances which inspired the lads to collect valuable points against AFC Bournemouth, Hull City, Leicester City and Watford.
But while the academy graduate saw his progress halted over the festive period, Pickford revealed at the North East Football Writers’ Awards, which saw him named 2016’s young player of the year, that he could be back very soon.
“The knee is fine now,” he said.
“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.”
