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Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford had a birthday to forget as his mistake allowed Arsenal an equaliser in their 2-1 win.
So far this season, it’s been pretty obvious that Leeds’ £40million investment in goalkeeper James Trafford has proven to be worth our while.
Not only have we managed to sign one of the most sought-after ‘keepers around for his potential, but also someone who is a marked improvement right now too.
James Trafford drops clanger as Leeds United lose to Arsenal
Leeds’ performance at the Emirates was exemplary, and we were fully deserving of taking the lead through James Justin. It was a flowing move where left-wing-back Gabriel Gudmundsson’s low cross met right-centre-back Justin at the far post, who lashed into the top corner.
However, our lead only lasted seven minutes. The Gunners were given a rocket up the backside after Leeds took the lead, and Riccardo Calafiori responded on 62 minutes.
It shouldn’t have gone in, though. Leeds had defended the box compactly up until that point, but allowed the Italian to stroll into the six-yard box unmarked. Calafiori’s volley was straight at Trafford, but the Leeds ‘keeper could only spill the ball into the goal, even though he got two gloves behind it.
Trafford’s blushes could have been made worse late on as he rushed out of goal to clear a loose ball. He chested the ball into Viktor Gyokeres’ path, but the Swede’s clunky play spared any further embarrassment.
Tim Howard responds to James Trafford’s Leeds United blunder with England claim
It was a weekend to forget for both of England’s competitors for the No1 spot. Trafford will want to forget his concession at the Emirates. Elsewhere, Jordan Pickford shipped two against Hull City that he should’ve done better with.
Former Premier League goalkeeper Tim Howard believes that Trafford needs to up his levels. The American claims that with Trafford now England’s first choice goalkeeper in his view, performances have to follow.
“It’s a day [Trafford] will want to have back. A couple of mistakes. But look, he’s England’s number one now, so he has got to up his level,” Howard told NBC Sports.
Whether or not you agree with Howard’s assessment of the England No1 spot is immaterial here. Trafford’s objective is to become that player very soon. To do so, Howard is right that he needs to show consistency in the Premier League.
Up to this point, we’ve been absolutely delighted with his performance. You just have to hope that Trafford doesn’t get disheartened by an off day. Because, we know how terrific he is and could be in the future.