Newcastle ally who clapped back at Carragher knows the truth about exciting transfer target

Newcastle ally who clapped back at Carragher knows the truth about exciting transfer target

Craig Bellamy has praised James Trafford as one of the best young goalkeepers in Europe, highlighting his impressive development over the past season.

Bellamy, who worked with Trafford as Burnley’s assistant manager last year, saw the 21-year-old endure a tough Premier League campaign, where he was dropped towards the end of the season as Burnley faced relegation. Despite this setback, Trafford has thrived in the Championship under new manager Scott Parker, setting a record for the most consecutive clean sheets in the second-tier league and conceding just three goals since Boxing Day.

Bellamy’s admiration for Trafford is clear, and he believes Newcastle’s interest in the goalkeeper is well-founded. The Wales boss remarked on Mission to Burnley that Trafford’s talent is undeniable, emphasizing how demanding the goalkeeper position is and how impressed he is by Trafford’s abilities, both in shot-stopping and distribution.

“Being a goalkeeper is really difficult because of what’s expected,” Bellamy said. “I expect them to be brilliant with their feet and make every pass. Trafford is exactly that type of player. You’ll be telling your kids, ‘He played for Burnley,’ and remember him forever.”

Newcastle’s interest in Trafford began last summer, despite his tough time in the Premier League with Burnley, where he conceded 61 goals in 28 games. However, with Trafford only 21 at the time, and playing for the league’s bottom side, Newcastle saw his potential and have continued to monitor his progress.

Now, with Burnley pushing for promotion and Trafford eager to return to the Premier League, his future looks bright. “I believe I’ll be in the Premier League next season,” Trafford said. “It’s where I want to play, and I’m ready for it.”