Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

Culture

Pickford or Trafford? The battle to be England's number one is now on

Jordan Pickford has been England's number one for a long time. But does he now have a rival in James Trafford?

Pickford or Trafford? The battle to be England's number one is now on

For the past decade, Jordan Pickford has been England's starting goalkeeper in major tournaments. However, his reign as the nation's top goalkeeper may be facing a challenge. In a recent 3-2 Nations League loss to Spain, 23-year-old Leeds goalkeeper James Trafford made his competitive debut for England, signaling the beginning of the battle for the starting position.

Pickford, who has become England's most-capped goalkeeper at World Cups, started almost all of England's World Cup qualifiers and every game during the summer. But Trafford has impressed since joining Leeds for a deal worth up to £45 million, showing his quality with the ball and making crucial saves. Tuchel praised Trafford's performance and decision to give him two matches, stating that it's time to see how far James is.

Trafford's form this season has helped Leeds to fifth in the Premier League, and his move to England could finally give him a chance to compete with Pickford for the number one spot.

Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport Football's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Read the original at bbc.co.uk →

More in Culture

More from Saturday 26 September →