Since Gianluigi Donnarumma joined Manchester City, James Trafford has been reduced to Guardiola’s backup goalkeeper. James Trafford is too good a goalkeeper to just be used as a substitute. He has proven this every time he scores for Manchester City in his first start this season. Yesterday, Trafford scored again as Manchester City defeated Salford City 2-0 and advanced to the fifth round of the FA Cup. He made two key saves and scored steadily for the team. To James Trafford’s credit, despite the frustrating experiences he has endured this season, he always puts his best foot forward when asked to do so.
Without James Trafford’s crucial save, Manchester City’s afternoon against Salford City could have been even more difficult.
James Trafford was not expected to be busy scoring goals in yesterday’s game. Manchester City are expected to beat Salford City in the fourth round of the FA Cup at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola’s side were expected to put the League Two side aside after Salford City defender Alfie Dorrington fired the ball into his own net in the sixth minute yesterday. But that’s not what happened in yesterday’s game. Salford City were at full strength and James Trafford had to make several crucial saves to keep Carl Robinson’s side at bay.
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James Trafford’s first truly quality save came just before half-time. Manchester City leads 1-0, and Salford City strives for an equalizer. A great move from Salford saw Ryan Graydon cut the ball back into a dangerous position inside the City penalty area. Ben Woodburn’s shot was destined for the top corner before James Trafford produced a stunning save. It was the first of two important saves from James Trafford.
James Trafford’s second important save came within the hour yesterday. After sustained pressure from Salford City, Kelly N’Mai fired a shot into the net from a tight angle. Trafford made another strong save to keep the ball out. James Trafford wasn’t busy yesterday but he was ready when he came on and that was crucial to Manchester City’s win.
James Trafford spoke after his impressive performance in Manchester City’s win at the Etihad Stadium.
James Trafford said after yesterday’s game that he knew he wouldn’t be busy scoring goals for Manchester City yesterday. He added that when he is asked to take action, he must do what is asked. Trafford did just that. The young goalkeeper also admitted to the frustrating experiences he has endured this season. He explained: “I know I won’t have much to do, but when I’m asked, I have to do a good job. That’s good, but it’s not what I expected for this season. I try to guard against it. This is reality and I have to do my best. This is the situation I’m in. We train every day but it’s fun to make saves as well“.
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“It’s one of those, it’s a knockout. We won and there was still a week until the next game. We must move on.“
James Trafford has shown his best every time he has been called upon to start for Manchester City this season. It’s a credit to him that he performed so well. This season has been a frustrating experience for the young goalkeeper. This will be even more frustrating for Trafford given his ambition, determination and confidence. Despite Trafford’s setbacks, he still plays an important role in the team. Without him, Manchester City’s Carabao Cup semi-final tie against Newcastle United yesterday might have been even more difficult. So Trafford’s string of recent important performances in goal kicks have earned him more than just flowers.
