Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford still has to work to overcome Jordan Pickford in his pursuit of becoming England’s No1.
The international break is upon us, and Leeds go into it in much higher spirits than a few days ago. Victory over Spurs has massively raised the mood at Elland Road.
In particular, James Trafford confidently shook off his error against Bournemouth to produce another impressive display both in shot-stopping and with the ball at his feet.
James Trafford brushes aside Leeds United mistakes against Spurs amid England No1 confidence
That weak pass to Ao Tanaka proved costly away to Bournemouth, but it was clear that it was never going to change how Trafford plays out from the back.
Daniel Farke’s setup insists on Trafford being brave with the ball and trying to prise the opposition press open by finding that pass into midfield. Against Spurs, there was a key example of it working to perfection as he combined with Tanaka and Tarik Muharemovic, before Melvin Bard whipped a delightful pass in behind Spurs to set up an attack that led to Ethan Ampadu having a shot blocked for a corner.
Not only did Trafford remain confident with the ball at his feet, but his shot-stopping was on point again. Spurs didn’t create much at all, but Jan Paul van Hecke’s stoppage-time header was destined to go in if not for a stunning Trafford stop.
Prior to the game, Trafford spoke about his England No1 ambitions, whilst acknowledging Jordan Pickford’s England and Everton heroics.
“It’s my aim and something I’ve always dreamed of becoming, and always believed one day that I could be,” Trafford told the BBC of his England No1 desires.
“Every day I try and keep improving to put myself in the position to be England’s No1 one day. Everyone in the goalie department in the national team all want to be the No1.”
Thomas Tuchel comments on James Trafford, Jordan Pickford selection decision amid Leeds United form
It seems inevitable that Trafford will be the man to eventually take over from Pickford. That is, once the Everton stalwart’s time as England’s main ‘keeper comes to an end.
For now, Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel still wants Pickford as his first choice. But, he insists Trafford will consistently get opportunities in order to develop into a starter.
“Pickford is number one, but nothing has changed,” Tuchel said, per talkSPORT. “The competition is on there as well, like for the outfield players. They shared the matches last time. I’m not sure what we will do. There’s an opportunity that we maybe do this again. I have to speak with our goalkeeper coach.”
Importantly, Tuchel has clearly consulted both ‘keepers over this plan to share the minutes and fast-track Trafford’s development. Pickford’s classy response to this coaching strategy was also noted by the German.
“I was very impressed and a bit surprised by his [Pickford’s] reaction when we spoke to him,” Tuchel continued.
“I thought he’d be less of a fan than he proved to be. Because he said he totally understands it. He impressed me a lot last time. We spoke to him; it was a very short conversation. It was very positive.
“He said ‘yeah, let’s do this, Traff deserves it, and I will push him’. And he didn’t change at all. If he changed, he changed even to the positive, he pushed Traff, he gave him a good feeling. So very impressive, he did it very well.”
James Trafford learning a lot from Jordan Pickford as Leeds United man aims for England opportunity
Based on Tuchel’s comments, we can expect Trafford to play in one of the games against Croatia or Spain this international break.
It’s fair for him to back Pickford as his number one. He’s been very good for Everton in their bright start to the season, like Trafford has been for us too.
However, what’s great to see here is how Pickford is leaning into his role as the vastly experienced man to help guide Trafford into taking on the mantle long-term.
Everyone wants it to happen, including the Everton stopper. Trafford’s progress already at Leeds has been remarkable.
