James Trafford has been selected as the goalkeeper in the Premier League team of the season. The 24-year-old Leeds United player earned his place with an average rating of 7.12, the highest for any shot-stopper.
The team is compiled using average performance ratings from WhoScored, with players needing at least three Premier League starts to qualify. It is a fluid selection that will be updated as the campaign continues.
Trafford's impressive start
Trafford's rating is underpinned by a save percentage of 83.3 per cent, which is the best in the Premier League. His performances have been a key factor in Leeds conceding only six goals in their first eight games, giving them the second-best defensive record in the division behind Arsenal. Leeds currently sit seventh in the table.
Daniel Farke, the Leeds manager, was desperate to sign the goalkeeper and has publicly praised his mentality and confidence. Trafford joined from Manchester City in August for a fee that could eventually reach £45 million, a British record for a goalkeeper. Standing 6ft 6in tall, he is described as a laid-back and self-assured character who lives near the club's training ground.
The full team of the season
The team is set up in a 3-4-2-1 formation. Alongside Trafford, his Leeds teammate Tarik Muharemovic is included as a centre-back with a rating of 7.28. The rest of the defence features Luka Vuskovic of Brighton (7.42) and Liverpool's Jeremy Jacquet (7.24).
Anan Khalaili of Crystal Palace is the right wing-back (6.84), with Tottenham's Andy Robertson on the left (6.54). The midfield is anchored by Aston Villa's Johan Manzambi (7.32) and Manchester City's Elliot Anderson (7.08). The attacking midfield roles go to Chelsea's Morgan Rogers (7.24) and Manchester City's Iliman Ndiaye (6.91), with Aston Villa's Nicolas Jackson (7.13) leading the line.
Former Leeds goalkeeper Nigel Martyn has noted Trafford's family-oriented nature, while Simon Grayson, another former manager, believes the keeper's character has helped boost the form of other new signings at Elland Road. Trafford has four England caps and is seen as a potential long-term challenger to Jordan Pickford for the national team's number one jersey.
His move to Leeds was motivated by a need for regular football after losing his place at Manchester City. Leyton Orient's focus returns to League One action this weekend with a home fixture against Cambridge United on Saturday.
Background and full detail: The i Paper
