Trafford's Strong England Debut Puts Pickford's No. 1 Spot in Doubt
James Trafford delivered a composed performance on his England debut start against world champions Spain at Wembley, fueling fresh questions over Jordan Pickford's long-held grip on the No. 1 jersey.
Handed just his third cap, the Leeds goalkeeper made two outstanding saves during a torrid opening 35 minutes, as Spain threatened to overwhelm England early, helping the hosts build a surprise 2-1 half-time lead in Saturday's Nations League opener. England ultimately fell 3-2 after Harry Kane missed a 54th-minute penalty that would have restored a two-goal cushion.
Trafford, visibly defiant when asked about a difficult season at Manchester City, pushed back firmly against suggestions it was a wasted campaign, noting he won both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup, playing every round despite Pep Guardiola signing Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG just three games into his City career.
"It obviously wasn't ideal how it panned out but looking back... I got two trophies to my name that I played every game in," Trafford said. "You take the positives. You play the cards you're dealt." His assured display against Spain adds real competition to England's goalkeeping picture ahead of the next international window.
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