Thomas Tuchel announced his England squad last week, including two Leeds United stars. Dominic Calvert-Lewin and James Trafford were selected for this international break.
Fans and people around the club suggested that Leeds should have had more players in the squad.
Jayden Bogle has gotten off to a great start to the season and was even nominated for Premier League Player of the Month for September. James Justin was also on the radar, with reports that the technical team had an eye on him.
The international break provides the perfect chance for both Calvert-Lewin and Trafford to stake a claim to the team.
England do not have a consistent backup for Harry Kane and that could open the door for the former Everton man.
Leeds United star told he will have to wait for England spot
James Trafford. Credit: IMAGO
After the 2026 World Cup, there have been calls for Jordan Pickford to be dropped from the national team.
James Trafford seems to be next in line to replace the Everton star, and his recent move to Leeds United could be that catalyst.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness thinks Trafford will have a long wait before taking Pickford’s spot.
“Trafford has started well, and he’s a talented keeper. The way it’s going to work, I think, is that it’ll go on World Cup cycles. I would still see Pickford hanging on through the next World Cup cycle,” he said.
“Provided Pickford maintains his form, which he seems to be doing, then it’ll go on the World Cup cycle. But Trafford will definitely be the one who will be pushing him.
“An international manager will probably pick a keeper for the two years. You’ll look at the Euros and then he’ll get somebody in place before the World Cup. That’s what they’ll be thinking about, giving any replacement keeper the chance to have an extended run.
“That change could come sooner rather than later if that’s what they really think and they want to get somebody in place for four years’ time. But my gut feeling is that Pickford will last through the next World Cup cycle.”
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James Trafford has to work hard for that England spot
Jordan Pickford remains England’s number one, especially with the next European Championships just around the corner.
The Everton man continues to perform consistently for Everton too, so Trafford will have to bide his time as the backup.
In the meantime, he will get a few England games during international breaks. And now that the Leeds man has a new club where he is undisputed number one, he can make his case.
A solid campaign for the Whites this year could put him in serious consideration for the England number one spot sooner than later.
