Accrington Stanley have today completed the signing of goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City on a season-long loan.
Trafford joined City from Carlisle United as an Under-12 and progressed through the ranks at the Etihad Stadium, before signing his first professional contract in July 2020.
He was named on the bench for Pep Guardiola's side on six occasions during the 2020/21 campaign, including the club's 2-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League Semi-Finals.
The Cockermouth-born goalkeeper has also represented his parent club in the Papa John's Trophy, with the youngster keeping a clean sheet in victories over both Mansfield Town and Scunthorpe United.
Trafford is an England youth international and the 18-year-old played a pivotal role as City secured last season's Premier League 2 Division 1 title for the first time in the club's history.
John Coleman said: "James is highly regarded at Manchester City, I have watched him a few times and he ticks the boxes for us. He is keen to develop here.
"Man City hope he will break through to the first team and he needs to use us as a springboard.
"It does mean we have a group of young goalkeepers at the club but if he is good enough, he is old enough in my view.
"Toby Savin had a breakthrough season last year and it will be a straight fight between Toby and James for a first team place."
James said: “Me and the goalkeeping staff at City have always felt this was the right time to come out on loan after my second year as a scholar so I am really excited.
"I used to play against Accrington at Carlisle and so I have always looked out for them in the league.
“I have trained with Toby and Liam (Isherwood) and it's a group that has lots of energy, they are two really good lads and it’s competitive in training."
James' first interview video will be uploaded to the club's official YouTube channel later today, CLICK HERE to find out more!
Do you want to sponsor James?
Our sponsorship packages are priced at £180 for home or away kit, or we offer a deal of £299 for both.
To find out more information, please contact our Commercial team on 01254 356950 (Option 3) or by emailing commercial@accringtonstanley.co.uk.