Football NewsBBC SportUnverified source· 26 Sept 2026
Pickford vs Trafford: England's number one battle heats up
Jordan Pickford's decade-long grip on England's gloves is under threat from Leeds' James Trafford.


J. Pickford
player
Competition
Nations League
Result
Spain 3-2 England
Debutant
James Trafford
Manager
Thomas Tuchel
Plan
Two matches each
What happened. James Trafford made his competitive England debut in a 3-2 Nations League loss to Spain, with manager Thomas Tuchel confirming he and Jordan Pickford will get two consecutive matches each this international break.
- Pickford has been England's first choice since his 2017 debut.
- Trafford joined Leeds in a deal worth up to £45m.
- Tuchel says Trafford deserved his two matches after a strong Premier League start.
“I think he deserved to get the two matches, that's why we gave him two matches.”
— Thomas Tuchel
The goalkeeper rotation signals a genuine contest for England's number one spot ahead of future tournaments.
In this story
More to read

GiveMeSport
England: Paul Robinson Picks Pickford Over Trafford as Number One

Mirror Football
James Trafford sends clear message to Jordan Pickford in battle to be England's undisputed No 1

Mirror Football
Thomas Tuchel gives reason for surprise Jordan Pickford England decision vs Spain

The Guardian
James Trafford’s England dream burns with No 1 spot finally up for grabs again

