The goalkeepers have had to raise their game a few notches with the sport developing manifold over the years. Defenders are willing to take more risks nowadays and the process obviously induces errors in the beginning which in turn leads to added pressure on the goalkeeper. Also, the basic job description involving keepers has changed over the seasons. Not only do they have to protect their goal, they also have to orchestrate play from the back, instigate counters and a whole lot of new modifications have come into play.
With the position gaining more and more importance over the years, we have seen a sudden spike in the level of quality of the custodians in the Premier League. Seldom do we come across keepers who are the weak link in a team and it can be safely put that the English Premier League has the best pool of goalkeepers right now.
We take a look at the 3 keepers who have stood out till now for their teams.
TOM HEATON (BURNLEY)
The Burnley custodian has been in terrific form for the Clarets. He has firmly planted himself between the sticks and is on course to play a huge part in potentially the best season till date for Burnley. He already has clean sheets against Liverpool and Manchester United. Very few teams and their keepers can boast of this feat and the invaluable point against Manchester United was solely down to the unbelievable heroics of Heaton. In 12 matches till now, he has made the highest number of saves. He has denied the opposition a whopping 44 times and it underlines his importance to the team’s cause.
JORDAN PICKFORD (SUNDERLAND)
One of the few shining lights of an otherwise horrific season for Sunderland has been the English keeper Jordan Pickford. David Moyes recently revealed that he had placed his trust on Pickford and hence turned down the opportunity to sign England No.1 Joe Hart on loan.
And boy has he repaid the faith. Called into action after an injury to Mannone, the young keeper has shown maturity beyond his years. He has been agile and impressive for the Black Cats and has made the 2nd highest number of saves in the League (38).
HEURELHO GOMES (WATFORD)
The Watford custodian had a nervy start to the season but has improved significantly as the matches have gone by. Watford have been extremely impressive this season and so has their keeper. Gomes will be looking to at least match his enterprising displays of last season and is well on his way. He has had a hand in 3 clean sheets till now and has also made 29 saves till now which puts him in the top bracket of keepers in the league.
STATS COURTESY- SQUAWKA.COM
