Why Brad Friedel sees Leeds' James Trafford as England's next number one by EURO 2028

Leeds United's James Trafford faces a tough battle to become England number one.

Jordan Pickford has been a fine performer for the Three Lions over the years, and nobody has come close to overthrowing him so far.

However, over the last couple of international games, Thomas Tuchel has been experimenting by starting Trafford.

Those appearances have been as a result of his solid displays for Leeds United in the Premier League this season.

Now, former 82-cap American international Friedel has weighed in on the debate between the Leeds and Everton number ones.

With the former Tottenham shot-stopper already making a prediction about Trafford's chances for EURO 2028.

What has Brad Friedel predicted for James Trafford?

Friedel is a veteran of the goalkeeping game and made 668 appearances across all competitions throughout his career.

So, the American certainly knows what he is talking about when it comes to playing between the sticks.

Speaking on talkSPORT on 2 October, Friedel now believes that Trafford is the leading candidate to start for England at EURO 2028.

When asked the question about Trafford or Pickford for the tournament, he said: "I would probably say Trafford. I think with his age, they might think of building, but that doesn't take away from Pickford at all.

"But I do think it'll be one of those two if I had to decide right now. But I like Trafford a lot."

Friedel was also full of praise for the Leeds shot-stopper in the recent international bouts.

The former American international believed Tuchel has used the "perfect time" to begin transitioning away from Pickford, and that Trafford is "an excellent goalkeeper."

With two England international games left this break, Pickford is expected to return to the squad. but Trafford will take plenty away from his experience.

What other Leeds start could push for England 2028 role?

At 29 years old, Dominic Calvert-Lewin may be in with his last chance of going to an international tournament with England.

By the time the competition on home soil comes around, the Englishman will be 31 years old, and a new age of strikers may begin to rear their heads.

Elsewhere, Jayden Bogle has certainly been performing exceptionally, and based on how he has played so far this campaign, an England debut should not be too far around the corner for him.

However, there is still plenty of time before EURO 2028 comes around and lots can still change between now and then.