EGAN-RILEY AND TRAFFORD LEFT EMOTIONAL AFTER SECURING PROMOTION

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Long-standing friends reflect on special moment

2025-04-23T11:06:48.821Z

EGAN-RILEY AND TRAFFORD LEFT EMOTIONAL AFTER SECURING PROMOTION

Long-standing friends reflect on special moment

2025-04-23T11:06:48.821Z

Long-standing friends reflect on special moment

CJ Egan-Riley and James Trafford have been friends for over 10 years, after coming through the academy ranks at Manchester City together and the duo were lost for words after securing promotion to the Premier League on Monday evening.

The Clarets booked their place back in the top-flight with a 2-1 win over Sheffield United at Turf Moor and both Egan-Riley & Trafford played pivotal roles across the 2024/25 campaign.

Speaking post-match on Monday night, Egan-Riley said: "It's amazing, honestly. I'm over the moon, I'm lost for words really. To achieve promotion with this group of players and this group of staff, the fans, the families, it's an amazing feeling."

On achieving promotion alongside Trafford, the youngster added: "It's quite emotional really when you say it like that. We have played together since we were 10-years-old and I don't really know what to say.

"I can't even speak right now to be honest, I will get upset if I carry on but I'm really proud of us both and the journey we've been on."

EGAN-RILEY AND TRAFFORD LEFT EMOTIONAL AFTER SECURING PROMOTION - Image 1

Trafford explained how much the whole dressing room has played it's part across the season and that every player has played a role in being successful.

The shot stopper explained: "The dressing room is amazing, everyone has played their role, whether they play every week or as a substitute, everyone has been a part of this.

"From the older lads down to the younger ones, everyone has supported each other and that's why we have been successful."

He added: "It's been an amazing season, that we will always look back on and always be proud of. It's so special to be a part of it and get the records we did."