Exclusive:'Hopefully' - Michael Owen makes England claim regarding Leeds United star James Trafford
Michael Owen has delivered a verdict on Leeds United and England goallkeeper James Trafford
England legend Michael Owen believes Leeds United star James Trafford has a “big future” - and hopes to see him get established at international level.
The 23-year-old has won two senior caps for the Three Lions and has been named in their latest squad for upcoming Nations League fixtures.
He is currently an understudy to Everton’s Jordan Pickford, who has been England’s gloveman of choice for nearly a decade.
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Michael Owen on James Trafford
Retired marksman Owen, who won 89 caps for England, is a fan of Trafford but feels Pickford will be tough to dislodge.
He told The Yorkshire Post: “I like James Trafford. I think he's a very good ‘keeper. He’s probably been a bit unlucky not to have played more at other clubs in recent times, but he's getting a good run now and yeah, England absolutely should come calling.
“Jordan Pickford is obviously doing particularly well himself at the moment, so he could be a tough nut to crack because he's had that position for a long time, but I do like Trafford.
“I think he's got a big future - hopefully at international level.”
Leeds United’s goalkeeping solution
Trafford was a club-record signing for Leeds in the summer transfer window, making the move from Manchester City for a £40m fee.
He has since looked assured between the sticks at Elland Road, providing supporters with some much-needed confidence after years of uncertainty in the goalkeeping department.
Illan Meslier endured a fall from grace in LS11 and the man signed to replace him - Lucas Perri - flattered to deceive.
Karl Darlow was a capable stand-in, yet the need for a new long-term number one was clear as Leeds entered the summer window earlier this year.
In August, former England goalkeeper David James suggested Trafford could be the first-choice Three Lions stopper for the next decade.
He said: “He could be their goalkeeper for the next decade, and he started off his Leeds career with a clean sheet, so it doesn’t get better than that. I also think he will be England’s goalkeeper for the next 10 years as well, he’s that good.”