Man City and Burnley stars react to James Trafford’s ‘huge’ message
James Trafford saw reactions pour in from both his current and former teammates at Man City and Burnley following his latest heartfelt message.
Trafford enjoyed a standout campaign last season, keeping 29 clean sheets as Scott Parker’s Burnley sealed automatic promotion back to the Premier League.
It was an extraordinary record, with Burnley’s defence matching the Football League milestone of 30 clean sheets in a single season first set by Port Vale in 1953/54.
His form inevitably attracted attention. While Newcastle had held long-standing interest in Trafford but were ultimately deterred by Burnley’s high valuation. With Manchester City also involved in discussions, the 22-year-old instead secured a move back to his former club this summer.
His progress has not gone unnoticed, and he has now been rewarded for his performances in a post that has prompted messages of support and recognition from across the football world.
James Trafford lands double honour at PFA awards
At the Professional Footballers’ Awards on 19 August, Trafford walked away with two major honours following his outstanding campaign.
The goalkeeper was named Championship Players’ Player of the Year and also earned a place in the Team of the Year for his consistent performances across the season and Trafford shared a heartfelt message to say:
“Incredibly proud to be named the PFA Championship Players’ Player of the Year and included in the Team of the Year. A huge thank you to all the lads who voted. It’s an honour to be recognised by those I share the pitch with.”
He saw plenty of reactions from his current and former teammates with CJ Egan Riley commenting with heart emojis and Hannibal Mejbri saying “Normal” with fire emojis, while Tijjani Reijnders and Nathan Ake among those to like the post.
He conceded just 16 goals as Burnley reached the 100-point mark, only missing out on the title to Leeds United on goal difference. His campaign also included a remarkable run where Trafford kept 12 consecutive clean sheets between December and February — another Championship record to his name.
Man City willing to sanction Ederson exit
While Trafford is beginning to establish himself as Man City’s first-choice goalkeeper, Ederson continues to be linked with a move away.
Football Insider revealed Man City are prepared to agree a deal with Galatasaray for Ederson in the closing stages of the window.
Guardiola has already overseen the departures of several senior players this summer, including Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish, and his long-standing keeper could be the next to depart.
Former scout Mick Brown previously revealed that Ederson would be allowed to leave Man City at the end of last season amid growing Saudi Pro League interest. However, with discussions ongoing, a switch to Turkey now appears to be a realistic possibility.