As Jack Butland impresses for Rangers, one begins to wonder if England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford should realistically be looking over his shoulder.
After all, there was a moment when it was Jack Butland and not the £30m Everton stopper who was being tipped to take the gloves of the Three Lions.
But whilst Jack Butland might be still some ways away from England contention, can the Rangers goalkeeper ever dislodge Jordan Pickford whilst he turns out at Ibrox?
In short, probably not. He couldn’t if he moved to Birmingham City either.
Whilst Rangers are enjoying the exploits of the nine-times capped former England stopper – who hasn’t played for the country since 2018 – there is quite simply too much Premier League traffic in his way.
Jack Butland England hopes lie firmly in Premier League
England number one Jordan Pickford retains the gloves but Arsenal stopper Aaron Ramsdale and Crystal Palace alternative Sam Johnstone – also once linked to Rangers – stand in Jack Butland’s way.
There is no doubt that a shot at the England jersey will be in the sights of the Rangers goalkeeper and if you ask me, I certainly don’t think it’s beyond him.
Rangers have signed a classy professional who has responded to the expectations at Ibrox and who has already begun to prove his credentials in the legendary position as Gers goalkeeper.
Even in the clash with Dundee the stopper was alert to prevent a sure fire goal and by the game Rangers fans are seeing Jack Butland’s talent play out on the park.
English footballing snobbery of course plays a role in whether or not Jack Butland would be considered for England and even if he continues to shine for Rangers we doubt he’ll ever earn the necessary recognition.
But then again, for a player so talented to have been so neglected and resigned to a career as a backup goalkeeper in England, it’s probably something Jack Butland is used to.
Rangers fans will be hoping an opportunity in the Premier League and the lure of a potential England recall doesn’t convince their stopper to leave to any time soon.
It’s a view shared by new manager Philippe Clement, who is confident the talented goalkeeper is going nowhere.
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