Leeds star James Trafford and Thomas Tuchel
James Trafford and Thomas TuchelImago

Why James Trafford debate hasn’t been settled after England’s win vs Croatia

Declan Carr

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior sports journalist with experience at Sports Mole and VAVEL; Masters graduate from Liverpool John Moores University. FOCUS Breaking news, long-form analysis, and club-level insight across the Breaking Media network. THE INSIGHT Declan utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the depth behind the headlines — from breaking news to analytical deep-dives — to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

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Leeds United star James Trafford found little out about his England fate in the 7-0 win over Croatia.

The Whites star played against Spain and Czechia in the UEFA Nations League A group matches.

Everton's Jordan Pickford returned to the line-up for the clash with Slaven Bilic's side.

That was always planned by Thomas Tuchel, as he tried to provide his usual number one with some competition.

Goals from Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, Bukayo Saka and Morgan Rogers were the difference.

However, the Three Lions' performance in Rijeka does nothing to settle the debate.

Why England's win did little to solve James Trafford debate

Trafford may have been hoping that Pickford had a dismal display, so questions were raised about his position.

However, the Blues star was so rarely needed that it did not provide us with any answers about his performance levels.

Tuchel still has a quandary to solve after the rout, as it did not give any insights.

It was a pretty pointless endeavour, at least in terms of the lack of action between the visitors' sticks.

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Tuchel will hope that Czechia provide more of a test next time out when they face them at Wembley.

Then perhaps, it will give him more detail about Pickford's level and whether there is a need to make a permanent change.

He has insisted that the Hill Dickinson Stadium star is his man for now, but a negative showing may make him doubt that stance and give the Peacocks star a way into his plans.

All that Trafford can do, is keep performing for Daniel Farke's side then do the same when he gets the nod at international level.

He should come back to Leeds with good fitness levels and he will be rested for the last two matches of the break.

That could allow him to put in a good display against Arsenal and continue the debate, after the dismal Croatians did not give his rival much to do.

Whether he will earn the number one spot in the immediate future remains to be seen, but it is encouraging that he is the clear contender behind the 92-cap ace.

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