Pickford relishing first Messi test as England prepare for Argentina showdown

England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is relishing the prospect of facing Lionel Messi and Argentina in the upcoming World Cup semi-final, a challenge that has eluded him throughout his decorated career. Pickford, who recently broke Peter Shilton's record for most England World Cup appearances, will come up against the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner for the first time when England takes on the reigning champions in Atlanta.

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I remember being sat in school on the floor watching when the teacher wheeled in the TV, so I'll never forget that moment.

Pickford, 32, was just eight years old when England last met Argentina in the 2002 World Cup group stage. He vividly remembers the moment, recalling, "I remember being sat in school on the floor watching when the teacher wheeled in the TV, so I'll never forget that moment." Now, he is set to face the player he watched as a child. "He's scored so many goals and he's contributed to so many goals all his career, and it's great to be able to finally come up against him after so long and watching him as a kid," Pickford said of the 39-year-old Messi.

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He's scored so many goals and he's contributed to so many goals all his career, and it's great to be able to finally come up against him after so long and watching him as a kid.

However, Pickford cautioned against viewing Argentina as a team solely reliant on Messi. "We all know how good Messi is, but we also know how good Argentina are," he stated. "We've got our thoughts on their other strengths as well, and the other weaknesses we can take advantage of." England, considered among the tournament favorites, has navigated numerous high-pressure situations, which Pickford believes highlights the team's resilience and togetherness.

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We all know how good Messi is, but we also know how good Argentina are.

Addressing Argentina's reputation for employing football's "dark arts," Pickford asserted that England would remain focused and unfazed. "Throughout the tournament, you've seen our desire to win titles. We've not got into any scuffles or anything, we've been very well respected within the game," he said. "Decisions go our way, they don't go our way. We just reset, and we let the football do the talking." He added that the team's mentality and focus prevent them from getting drawn into distractions, emphasizing their commitment to letting their play speak for itself.

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We've got our thoughts on their other strengths as well, and the other weaknesses we can take advantage of.