James Trafford praised for solid Leeds debut in win at Forest

The England international was making his first competitive appearance since his £45million summer move from Manchester City

James Trafford
Author: PA Sport StaffPublished 24th Aug 2026

Leeds boss Daniel Farke hailed the “aura” of James Trafford as the debutant goalkeeper helped his new side to an opening-day win at Nottingham Forest.

The England international was making his first competitive appearance since his £45million summer move from Manchester City and delivered a clean sheet as Leeds won 1-0 at the City Ground.

“Whenever a goalkeeper has a clean sheet, for us at Premier Level, he’s always world class,” Farke said.

“I wouldn’t say it was a game where he had to be there with 10 unbelievable saves or whatever, because there were not too many situations, but his appearance on the pitch was quite important.

“He has this natural aura of confidence and calmness around him, and this is exactly what we wanted.

“So we are very happy, but again, this was just the first game day. But he played, of course, a decisive part, and once we return back to the dressing room with a clean sheet, the goalkeepers are always accepted.”

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