Leeds United rivals Burnley handed major blow amid Championship promotion race

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Burnley have been dealt a massive blow just before the Championship title race with Leeds United and Sheffield United gets back underway.

The international break came at a convenient time for Leeds United, even if Willy Gnonto suffered an injury with Italy U21s.

Leeds’ form had begun to falter with just one win in four games and their lead at the top of the Championship table has evaporated, so they needed the rest.

Sheffield United are now on the same number of points, 80, as Daniel Farke’s side, while Burnley are only two behind.

The intense title race is going to heat up for the final eight fixtures, with Leeds returning to action against Swansea City on Saturday.

However, Burnley have been dealt a blow as goalkeeper James Trafford has claimed he will be playing in the Premier League next season, even if that isn’t with the Clarets.

James Trafford wants to be in the Premier League next season

Trafford has enjoyed an incredible season at Turf Moor, keeping 26 clean sheets and conceding just 11 goals in 37 games.

It’s a sensational record that has been the bedrock of Burnley’s title challenge, but his recent admission surely hasn’t gone down well amid growing transfer speculation.

“I believe I’ll be in the Premier League next season,” Trafford told BBC Radio Lancashire.

“It’s where I want to play, it’s obviously the best league in the world. I wanted to get there as quickly as I could and it took two years on loan to develop.

“I’ve really enjoyed this season in the Championship, but next season I believe I’ll be playing in the Prem.”

James Trafford adds needless pressure on Burnley, a boost for Leeds

While Trafford likely isn’t wrong, given the likes of Newcastle United and Tottenham are said to be interested in him, it’s not something you should say out loud.

Position	Team	Played MP	Won W	Drawn D	Lost L	For GF	Against GA	Diff GD	Points Pts
1	LeedsLeeds	38	23	11	4	76	25	51	80
2	Sheff UtdSheffield Utd	38	25	7	6	53	28	25	80
3	BurnleyBurnley	38	21	15	2	52	11	41	78
4	SunderlandSunderland	38	19	12	7	55	37	18	69

The shot-stopper’s declaration only serves to pile additional pressure on his side as they chase promotion, knowing that one of their best players will be out of the door if they fail.

Burnley trail behind the top two in the race and still have a massive game with the Blades to come in April. Trafford’s words might have a negative impact.