Stopper came in for fierce criticism following his remarks about the England hero after Adnan Januzaj struck the winner past the Three Lions' ace last week
THIBAUT COURTOIS has denied mocking Jordan Pickford over the England hero's height.
The Belgian goalkeeper made the remarks after Adnan Januzaj scored past the Three Lions stopper during the final group stage game last week.
Courtois said after Belgium's 1-0 victory over England: "The goalkeeper is 10cm smaller than me.
"I would have caught it. He was too busy throwing his legs in the air."
The Chelsea star was heavily criticised following his words.
However, after helping his nation to overcome Brazil on Friday to seal a spot in the World Cup semi-finals, the 26-year-old moved to clarify his remarks.
Speaking to the BBC, Courtois made a point of saying: "I never mocked his height, I just want to make that clear.
"I would never mock the height of a goalkeeper. I think he’s a great goalkeeper.
"I’m just 15cm taller, it’s a fact.
"I’m not mocking his height, he’s an excellent keeper and has shown that this year."
Pickford shut up his critics on Tuesday night with a superb display to help England overcome Colombia on penalties to reach the last-eight.
And the Everton man will be hoping for more joy and a clean sheet when he and his team-mates battle Sweden on Saturday for a place in the semis.
