Jordan Pickford has never been one to hide his emotions, and in a candid new interview with fellow Everton legend Wayne Rooney, the England number one opens up about his deep connection to the club, his World Cup ambitions, and what it truly means to wear the Three Lions badge.

There's a striking bond between these two former teammates, built on mutual respect and a shared passion for club and country. Combined, Pickford and Rooney have racked up a staggering 550 appearances for Everton and 202 for England. While Rooney stands as the nation's all-time leading scorer and most-capped outfield player, Pickford has been busy writing his own history—recently breaking the record for most consecutive clean sheets by an England goalkeeper.

"I'm a passionate lad and I love it at Everton," Pickford tells Rooney, reflecting on his journey from a raw talent to the undisputed number one for both club and country. Rooney, now watching from the pundit's chair, believes the 32-year-old is on a path to becoming England's greatest ever in his position.

With the World Cup on the horizon, the conversation naturally turns to ending 60 years of hurt for England's men's team. "We need something as a nation to win," says Pickford. "Any ex-England player—I don't think they'll ever be jealous. Everybody needs it. It's only going to push the England badge forward."

Having come agonizingly close in recent tournaments, Pickford knows the pain of falling at the final hurdle. But rather than dwell on disappointment, he's using it as fuel. "When you've been so close, it does hurt, but it's got to drive you. We know what it takes to get there—the commitment, the dedication. It's about getting over that final hurdle."

Rooney remembers Pickford's first call-up to the England squad vividly. The then-22-year-old made an immediate impression—not with a save, but by choosing a seat. "You got on the bus for the first time and came and sat next to me," Rooney recalls with a grin. "I remember thinking, 'What's he like?' I couldn't wait to get on the training pitch and try to dink you."

That fearless confidence has defined Pickford's career. From his debut in a 0-0 draw against Germany in 2017 to his 82nd cap, he's never shied away from the spotlight. Now, with the World Cup in sight, he's ready to lead England's charge—and maybe, just maybe, become a legend for life.