James Trafford has shared a heartfelt message following his final game as a Wanderers player.

Trafford impressed during the play-off semi-final against Barnsley, but there was nothing he could to do keep out Liam Kitching's header at Oakwell.

The Manchester City youngster has come on leaps and bounds since first joining the Whites on loan in January 2022, making 74 appearances for the club in total.

His consistent performances and big personality quickly made him a popular figure among Bolton supporters.

The goalkeeper is highly-rated at City and has broken into the England Under-21 side during his time at the UniBol.

Trafford is grateful to Ian Evatt and Wanderers for believing in him and giving him a chance to shine following a tough loan spell at Accrington, where he struggled to nail down a place in the side.

The 20-year-old also thanked the fans for their brilliant support and says he has made memories he will never forget.

He wrote on his Twitter page: “To the club who gave me an opportunity when no one else was willing to.

“I will always have the most respect and gratitude towards all the staff for it and helping me grow into the man I am today and helping me prepare for my next chapter.

“Thank you to the fans for being amazing and supporting me and the team up and down the country.

“I’m gutted we couldn’t say bye in the best fashion with promotion, but I have made friends for life and memories I’ll never forget and I will always be a Wanderer. Thank you for everything.”

Trafford has been an almost ever-present figure for the Whites in League One this season, playing in every game apart from the 3-2 win at Bristol Rovers on the final day.

The goalkeeper has been linked with a move to North West neighbours Burnley in the summer following their promotion to the Premier League.

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