Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has dismissed criticism of him attending a boxing event last week.

Pickford was pictured on Friday night in his native north east, after first-team stars were ordered to stay away from the club's Finch Farm training base.

Reports suggested Pickford was breaking club protocol by not being in self-isolation after one Toffees star showed coronavirus symptoms.

But Pickford set the record straight on social media, declaring: "Contrary to reports in some newspapers I am not in self-isolation.

"Last night I attended a boxing event with my family. Recently my local boxing event had a fire, in conjunction with one of my sponsors we helped the club get back on its feet by helping out.

"There are many young grassroots boxers training here and it helps the local community. I had made a commitment to them that I would attend the event and prior to going, I spoke to our club doctor to ensure I was ok to attend."