England make late change to November squad list with Manchester City star added | OneFootball

Manchester City’s James Trafford has received a late call-up to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad following the withdrawal of an existing and initial choice.

The 23-year-old’s season has already been eventful following a summer return to Manchester City and a rollercoaster start under Pep Guardiola, beginning the campaign as the club’s starting goalkeeper and featuring in the opening three Premier League fixtures against Wolves, Tottenham, and Brighton.

However, Trafford’s place as No.1 choice between the sticks was lost on transfer deadline day following Manchester City’s decision to secure Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain as Ederson’s replacement when the Brazilian joined Fenerbahce.

Despite being Guardiola’s No.2 for much of the campaign since, Trafford’s reputation as one of England’s brightest young goalkeepers has remained intact. The Cumbrian-born shot-stopper has continued to impress in training and cup performances, viewed as a long-term figure in plans.

Now, as confirmed by the Football Association on Tuesday morning, Manchester City’s James Trafford has been added to the England squad following the withdrawal of Newcastle United’s Nick Pope through concussion.

Trafford becomes the 19th Manchester City first-team player to be selected for international duty for their respective nations across the course of the coming fortnight, before returning for an away trip in Premier League action at St James’ Park.

Despite being Manchester City’s current back-up choice to Gianluigi Donnarumma, James Trafford is widely viewed as part of the England national team’s long-term goalkeeping picture.

With Pope sidelined and competition continuing from Jordan Pickford and Aaron Ramsdale, this international break could offer Trafford a valuable opportunity to train closely under Thomas Tuchel and strengthen his claim for a regular squad place heading into next year’s World Cup.