Leeds United face Newcastle this weekend before going into the international break. Players have already received their call-ups to play for their national teams.
This week has seen Anton Stach earn a recall to the German national team under Jurgen Klopp.
And on Friday, Thomas Tuchel named Dominic Calvert-Lewin and James Trafford in his England squad. Many believed two other Leeds stars Jayden Bogle and James Justin could have made the cut.
The Whites have had a very impressive start to this season.
Daniel Farke’s men have only lost one game in all competitions, and sit in third place in the Premier League. Leeds are unbeaten despite their difficult schedule which involved games against Brighton and Brentford.
talkSPORT presenters clash over Leeds United star in England squad
James Trafford. Credit: IMAGO
On talkSPORT, the presenters discussed the England squad and the Leeds United players involved.
James Trafford sparked a debate, as Sam Matterface and Alex Crook debated the keeper starting for England during this international break. This comes after Jordan Pickford’s performance in this summer’s World Cup.
Sam Matterface: “I think the long-term succession plan for Jordan Pickford is James Trafford.
“So, your job is to try to ease Trafford into the situation.
“You do that by having an experienced goalkeeper [like Jason Steele] to help facilitate that transition.”
Alex Crook: “We have a bit of a disagreement, unsurprisingly, this morning, about these four games.
“I’d like to see James Trafford given a start in one of the games, but you said they are not friendlies; they are competitive Nations League games.
“Does Pickford need to play all four games?”
READ MORE: Leeds star heavily tipped to be named in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad
James Trafford can put pressure on Pickford with Leeds
When Leeds signed Trafford, the plan for him is to be the club’s long-term solution.
But for the former Manchester City star, England is something he has had his eye on. Trafford has been in the wings for the national team for a while, after his performances at Burnley.
Last season saw him stall due to City buying Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Now with Leeds, he has the perfect opportunity to show his level at the Premier League. And so far, he has delivered just that with some impressive displays in goal for his new side.
If he continues at this rate, he will be the undisputed starter for England in the next year.
