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Pickford vs Trafford: Why the rush to change England goalkeepers?

James Trafford is already good, and soon he could be very good. But he is just not yet at Jordan Pickford’s all-round level.

By Patric Ridge · Toffee Web

Published: Tuesday, 29 September 2026 at 8:28 AM

Key Things to Know

Thomas Tuchel named Jordan Pickford his number one goalkeeper while testing James Trafford in UEFA Nations League matches.
England suffered a 3-2 defeat against Spain with Trafford starting in goal.
Trafford transferred to Leeds United after previously playing limited games for Manchester City.

The Story in 60 Seconds

England manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed plans to rotate goalkeepers during the international break, giving James Trafford playing time while maintaining that Jordan Pickford remains his first-choice option. Trafford started in England's recent 3-2 defeat against Spain during the opening UEFA Nations League fixtures.

The selection sparked debate over whether the Leeds United goalkeeper should surpass Everton's Pickford as the primary starter. Despite Trafford's potential, Pickford maintains superior top-flight experience, having made 186 appearances in the same timeframe Trafford accumulated 170 club games across multiple divisions.

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Pickford vs Trafford: Why the rush to change England goalkeepers?

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