Sunderland keeper Jordan Pickford replaces Tom Heaton in England squad

Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has been called into the England squad for the first time after Tom Heaton withdrew due to injury.

Pickford, 22, has made five Premier League appearances this season and has previously won nine England under-21 caps under Gareth Southgate.

The Football Association announced that Pickford had been summoned into the contingent who will face Slovenia in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday night.


Pickford wrote on Twitter: "Honoured to be called up to the @England senior team for the first time! Really excited for the journey ahead, can't wait to get started."
Pickford had previously been named in the U21 squad for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifier against Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Burnley's official account called Heaton's injury "minor." The 30-year-old Clarets captain made his senior England debut against Australia at the Stadium of Light in May.

The FA also confirmed that Arsenal left-back Kieran Gibbs had joined up with the squad following the injury Southampton's Ryan Bertrand picked up during Saturday's 2-0 home win over Malta.

source: ESPN FC