Questions marks about Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer’s long-term fitness have seen Bayern Munich plan to keep scouting Everton and England No1 Jordan Pickford at World Cup 2018, according to reports.

Pickford, 24, has emerged as Gareth Southgate’s first-choice between the posts after an outstanding debut campaign on Merseyside following last June’s £25 million (Dh122.6m) switch from relegated Sunderland.

The Sun state that such form has not gone unnoticed by the perennial Bundesliga champions. Neuer, 32, has only just recovered from a serious foot injury that caused him to miss eight months of 2017/18’s march to the title.

Pickford’s similar ability on the ball and shot-stopping prowess has convinced them to watch him in action in Russia this summer.