James Trafford produced a stunning double save from a penalty in the dying moments to help secure England’s 1-0 win over Spain in the Under-21 European Championships
James Trafford has claimed he knew he would save a penalty before England under-21s’ dramatic victory over Spain in the final of the European Championships.
Trafford was the hero, keeping out Abel Ruiz’s late spot-kick and Aimar Oroz’s follow-up to ensure the Young Lions beat Spain 1-0 in the final on Saturday. Curtis Jones’ goal, which came via a fortunate deflection from Cole Palmer’s free-kick, was enough to seal the title â England’s third in total, but first since 1984.
Trafford is currently a Manchester City academy player, but he is set to play Premier League football next season at Burnley. Vincent Kompany’s side have agreed to pay City an initial fee of £15million plus a potential £4m in add-ons for the 20-year-old goalkeeper.
England didn’t concede a single goal at the Under-21s Euros and Trafford showed he has the innate confidence to go with his ability in his post-match interview.