James Trafford gave fans exactly what they've wanted for years and is still getting stick for it

For years, fans have been crying out for footballers to show more personality in post-match interviews.

Instead of sharing their genuine thoughts on a big talking point, players will often shy away and refer back to their media training, using rehearsed phrases to effectively rule out the chances of being 'caught out'.

It's easy to understand why. A slip of the tongue or a so-called 'misplaced' opinion will create headlines and potentially cause friction, so why take what many would perceive as an unnecessary risk?

On the flip side, standing in front of the camera gives players the chance to speak their truth, showcase their personality and allow fans to get to know the person behind the footballer, which, in turn, can help them connect with a much wider audience.

At the weekend, for example, after Leeds started their Premier League campaign with a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest, goalkeeper James Trafford gave us an enthusiastic take on the club's ambitions for the season ahead.

"The aim is just to have a right go and give it the best shot we can," said Trafford.

"We are just taking it game by game because when you start thinking too far ahead, because of how the league is, everyone's always close together. You get two wins, you're up here, but then two losses (can move you down the table)."

After a brief pause, the animated Trafford played down expectations. "Who cares?" he shrugged. "Let's just enjoy the ride and have a right go."

Some appreciated the personality Trafford showed in his response on Match of the Day.

One fan said: "At least he sounds more genuine and authentic than the stereotypical robotic footballer interview," while a second added: "Good to hear someone not using the same old rehearsed answers, and actually speaking his mind."

Others, meanwhile, were quick to offer a negative take on Trafford going against the grain rather than offering the usual media-trained response.

These days, players are so conscious of saying the wrong thing that they end up saying very little at all. Trafford, on the other hand, spoke his mind and, although he almost definitely didn't mean that he didn't "care", his personality came across soon after.

Ultimately, we want players to have the confidence to show off their personality. Less robot, more Trafford.