James Trafford has quickly become a talking point at Burnley, with his skill-set highlighting him as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in the English game prior to his arrival.
However, there have been inconsistencies after a difficult first Premier League campaign for the young Burnley goalkeeper. Trafford’s shot-stopping abilities were among his standout attributes for Bolton Wanderers and during England’s U-21 EURO triumph, with sharp reflexes and a fearless approach in one-on-one situations.
But Trafford’s abilities go beyond conventional goalkeeping. He frequently tries to start assaults from the back and has a very well-polished distribution, displaying his precision and poise while playing out to Burnley’s defenders. He is a great asset in Vincent Kompany’s system because of his contemporary, ball-playing style, and Scott Parker should benefit from him as well.
Trafford can yet improve in a few areas. His choices have occasionally put Burnley in danger, especially when he rushes off his line. Furthermore, even though it is becoming better, his long-range passing is inconsistent enough to not take full advantage of counterattacking possibilities.
Trafford’s talent and promise make him a fascinating presence for Burnley as he continues to develop under Parker’s tutelage and in a league below where he struggled last season, despite these areas for growth and improvement.
The view on James Trafford’s future at Burnley ahead of the January transfer window
His form so far has seen him pick up five clean sheets in five games, whilst Trafford has conceded just five times and proven to be a big part in Burnley’s start to the season, which will naturally bring about interest once again from top-flight teams.
FLW’s Burnley fan pundit Nathan Rogers would not sell him for any price in January after we asked him for his thoughts regarding potential January interest and a possible transfer fee that it would take for the club to sell.
He said: “I don’t think we accept any price for James Trafford in January, and that’s the end of that.
“I’m not accepting any price for Trafford; he’s been absolutely pivotal in our clean sheet performances this season
“Yes, he has shortcomings. He is a young goalie who has only recently played in the Premier League and is playing in the Championship for the first time.
“Although he is embarking on a new adventure and learning curve, he has been essential to the back line’s continuity and has developed positive relationships with both center-backs.
The back line we are building is rather stable and comfortable, and it is rarely broken by adjustments.
“Continuity and being at ease with the guys in front of you are crucial for a ‘keeper.
“I believe it is improving his performance. Although James Trafford’s game has some shortcomings, is he among the league’s top goalkeepers? Indeed.
Will he go on to have a prosperous career in the Premier League in England? Yes, I can definitely see him staying in the England setup for a long time.
“In my opinion, there is no question about it—I’d even venture to say that he will be England’s number one.
“He will continue to receive playing time and be a beloved favorite in the FA and England setup.
But like I said, I don’t want him in January. Trafford is not at all something we sell.
Maybe in the summer, yes, but as for January? I would not accept a single penny.
“I wouldn’t even consider opening the email if they sent one through if they offered James Trafford a transfer.”
Despite playing for a relegated Burnley squad, Trafford is a young player with a bright future ahead of him because of his high rating in the game and his contribution to England’s setup.
Many believed Trafford would win the game after Kompany left, but to their astonishment, Parker gave him the vote of confidence as his number one. This was after Václav Hladký was one of Parker’s first hires. However, it was always anticipated that Trafford would draw interest, particularly given his recent success.
Despite Newcastle United’s strong interest and their rumored £16 million bid being rejected for Trafford over the summer, Burnley is thought to have
Now that Trafford is second in the table, Burnley’s request to maintain him looks well-reasoned. Trafford has undoubtedly contributed favorably this time around.
Leave a Reply