James Trafford played 45 minutes as England Under-21s suffered a 2-1 defeat against Croatia.

Gareth Southgate was in attendance at Fulham's Craven Cottage to watch the action.

The goalkeeper was replaced by West Brom’s Josh Griffiths at the break, having played the full 90 minutes in the 4-0 win against France over the weekend.

There was nothing Trafford could do about the opener after Martin Baturina found the top corner with a stunning free kick.

The second goal came after the Manchester City loanee had left the field, with Dion Drena Beljo doubling the visitors’ lead from the penalty spot.

England pulled one back through a penalty of their own three minutes from time, with Morgan Gibbs-White keeping his cool from 12 yards.

But it wasn’t enough for Lee Carsley’s side, who stepped up their preparations for this summer’s Euro Finals in Romania and Georgia.

It was Trafford’s fourth appearance at this level, having made his debut last summer after impressing in League One. The 20-year-old has been a mainstay in the Bolton side this season, playing 42 times in all competitions.

Meanwhile, Luke Mbete was an unused substitute as England Under-20s drew 1-1 against France in Marbella.

Chelsea defender Bashir Humphreys was on target for the Young Lions, with Alan Virginius scoring the equaliser.

Ian Foster’s side are preparing for this summer’s Under-20 World Cup, having won the Under-19 Euros last summer.

The rest of Wanderers’ internationals have already returned ahead of Sunday’s Papa Johns Trophy final against Plymouth at Wembley. The Whites have already sold more than 33,000 tickets for the fixture.

Bolton won the competition in 1989 following a memorable 4-1 win against Torquay at Wembley. Under-18s manager Julian Darby was on target against the Gulls that day.

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