Surprising Mary Earps decision is a distraction England could do without | OneFootball

Mary Earps stunned the English game when announcing her decision to retire from international football.

As a winner of the European Championship, FA Cup, two FIFA Best Women’s Goalkeeper prizes and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, Earps has become one of the most recognisable figures in the women’s game.

She is a larger-than-life character that fits the enigmatic mould when it comes to elite performers filling a role between the sticks. After achieving so much, Earps has decided to walk away from the international arena.

The Paris Saint-Germain’s goalkeeper’s decision to step down comes after losing her place as number one. Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton won a domestic treble with the West Londoners last season and will be England’s first-choice at this summer’s European Championship.

Can European champions England defend their crown?

The timing of Earps’ decision will be disconcerting for some, to say the least. England, as title holders, are readying themselves for the defence of a continental crown.

With all the talent that’s been at their disposal until now, they figure prominently among the favourites for the trophy.

Another battle with World Cup winners Spain appears to be on the cards. England are priced at 3/1 in the Women’s EURO 2025 betting market to go back-to-back, just behind the Spanish. France and Germany are considered outside contenders.

Earps helped England to get across the line in 2022, with wild celebrations sparked at Wembley Stadium when seeing off Germany in an extra-time thriller. She then played a leading role as the Lionesses made their way to the World Cup final in 2023. Having taken her collection of caps to 53, there will be no more outings with three lions on the shirt.

Earps’ shock call – and the reaction

Earps said when making the huge career call: “I have taken the difficult decision to retire internationally. It has been the greatest honour and privilege of my life, to wear this badge, represent my country and play alongside such an incredible group of players.”

England coach Sarina Wiegman and national team captain Leah Williamson have spoken of their disappointment at seeing a proven performer bow out.

That decision would have been easier to accept and understand had it been made on the back of another tournament being completed. If Earps helped to put England in contention for more medals, then few would have questioned her decision to step aside.

Legendary Lionesses striker Ellen White called the timing of the decision ‘crazy’: “It’s so close to the Euros. I don’t really know what to say because it is just crazy. It’s surprising with the timing and how close it is to the Euros.”

Given how proud she has been to represent her country down the years, Earps is surely not looking to undermine England’s efforts. She has, however, provided a distraction that Wiegman’s squad could do without.

European Crown

England are not in the business of providing excuses for potential failures. Inevitable questions will be asked, however, while the notable absence of Earps will place an added spotlight on Hampton’s performances.

There is one obvious way to avoid that debate. If England emerge successful, then new heroes will be made as absentees are quickly forgotten. If they do not, then the shadow cast by Earps will continue to loom large.

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