Pickford or Trafford? The battle to be England's number one is now on
England manager Thomas Tuchel has initiated a competition for the national team's starting goalkeeper position between veteran Jordan Pickford and newcomer James Trafford. Trafford made his competitive debut in a recent Nations League loss to Spain, marking the first time in a decade that Pickford's status as the undisputed number one has been challenged.
Why it matters
The shift in England's goalkeeping hierarchy represents a major tactical transition for the national football team under new management.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, James Trafford has made three appearances for England
England reporter at Wembley Stadium Published 27 September 2026, 00:06 BST You have to go back 10 years to find a major tournament where Jordan Pickford was not starting in goal for England.
The Everton goalkeeper has pretty much been England's number one since making his debut in 2017 - until now.
Saturday's 3-2 Nations League loss to Spain saw Leeds' James Trafford make his competitive debut for the Three Lions as manager Thomas Tuchel signalled the battle to be number one is on.
Pickford became England's highest appearance maker at World Cups, overtaking Peter Shilton when he started in England's 2026 quarter-final win over Norway.
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