Gary Lineker last night acknowledged the heroics of outgoing Manchester City youngster James Trafford for the England U21s, as they won the European Championships in dramatic fashion.
The Young Lions triumphed in Georgia, beating Spain 1-0 in the final.
It was Liverpool’s Curtis Jones who got the only goal of the game.
It was actually Cole Palmer’s free-kick that took a nick off him on its way into the corner.
The game was finely balanced, and it also had a bit of bite to it.
England faced potential heartache right at the death when they conceded a penalty. Levi Colwill, who had been outstanding, had been adjudged to have clipped Ruiz in the area.
VAR confirmed the spot-kick for Spain.
But Trafford stepped up for the biggest moment in his career to date, saving the penalty and then the follow up.
It was a remarkable moment for Trafford, whose saves ensured victory for England and also ensured that he went the whole tournament without conceding.
And since the game ended, he has been coming in for praise left, right and centre.
Gary Lineker acknowledges James Trafford after heroics for England
Trafford was always going to be the talk of the town following last night’s game.
It was inevitable given the dramatic fashion in which England won.
Trafford’s penalty save right at the death saw him trend on Twitter immediately.
Many hailed the City youngster, including one Gary Lineker, who had spent the day at Wimbledon.
The former Three Lions loves a pun, and couldn’t help but drop one about Trafford last night.
He said on Twitter: “Trafford centre of attention.” He also included two clapping emojis.
James Trafford heroics for England give justification for his price tag, as Man City exit nears
What a moment for Trafford.
He had to step up for his country and he did. Not only did he save the penalty, but he also made a crucial save on the follow up.
It’s a moment he’ll never forget, and surely a real springboard for him now.
He will now leave Manchester City to join Burnley. It has been reported that Burnley are paying £15 million for the talented youngster, and that the deal could eventually reach £19 million.
That has raised eyebrows. But it is very clear from his exploits in Georgia that Trafford has huge potential.
