James Trafford warms up for Leeds ahead of playing Manchester United at Croke Park.
James Trafford made his Leeds debut vs Man UnitedImago

Why medical staff at Leeds United held their breath over desperate James Trafford

Mark Smith

Assistant Editor AUTHORITY Senior editor responsible for daily news flow, sub-hub management, and maintaining editorial standards across the site network. FOCUS Editorial oversight, newsroom workflow, and verified reporting. THE BRIEF Former Leeds United correspondent Mark has risen through the ranks at Breaking Media Limited to manage the network’s daily output. He works between the reporters and the experts to ensure the data and the news are applied correctly to every story.

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James Trafford was sensational as he made his unofficial Leeds United debut on Wednesday evening.

Trafford played the first 45 minutes as Leeds drew 1-1 against Manchester United in Dublin.

With over 80,000 fans in attendance at Croke Park, the goalkeeper picked up the man of the match award.

Despite his first day only being on Tuesday, Trafford pulled off several smart saves against the fierce rivals in red.

Bryan Mbeumo would have scored against any other keeper, but the former Manchester City stopper kept him out sensationally twice.

Daniel Farke was delighted with his record signing, but admitted others behind-the-scenes were nervous.

James Trafford decision overruled

There were question marks over Trafford's involvement in Dublin after only one training session.

Farke confirmed after the game that he was "desperate" to play in the 1-1 draw, and was given the nod.

Shared via the Athletic, it's said Leeds' medical staff were holding their breath over Trafford, and didn't think he should play.

Only for Farke to confirm that he took charge of the situation, and backed his new star player over his staff's suggestions.

Thankfully, it paid off for everyone.

James Trafford warms up for Leeds ahead of playing Manchester United at Croke Park.
What pundits are saying about James Trafford's first 45 minutes in a Leeds shirt vs Man United

What next for Leeds United?

In the immediate future, it doesn't look like any new signings will be made heading into the weekend.

Leeds play their final friendly of pre-season against Augsburg on Saturday, welcoming another German side to Elland Road.

Trafford will likely be given the entire 90 minutes in this one, as he gets to know his new teammates and gets sharp again.

Then, it's down to business with a trip to Nottingham Forest on the following Saturday in the Premier League.

Alex Cairns has filled in admirably during pre-season with the chaos around him, but he knows he has done his job.

Trafford will now step in and keep that role for good at Elland Road.

Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow have already moved on, Lucas Perri is set to leave too, and nobody could care less in LS11.

It's the Trafford show now.

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