England goalkeeper, Mary Earps has announced her retirement from international football with immediate effect.
Earps had been named in the squad for England’s final two UEFA Women’s Nations League fixtures against Portugal and Spain on 30 May and 3 June respectively, but has decided to end her international career earlier than many anticipated after 53 caps and following discussions with manager – Sarina Wiegman.
Issuing a statement explaining her “difficult decision” to retire from international duty, Earps felt that now is the right moment for her to stand down amidst increased competition from Hannah Hampton.
“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.
“I’ve spent a long time making this decision and it’s not one I’ve made lightly. For me, ultimately this is the right time for me to step aside and give the younger generation an opportunity to thrive. Winning the EUROs in 2022 was the best day of my life, and I’m rooting for the girls to do it again this summer.”
Wiegman didn’t hide her disappointment at Earps’ decision as she responded: “I had hoped that Mary would play an important role within the squad this summer, so of course I am disappointed.
“Mary has been clear on her reasons why she has made the decision and it is something we need to accept.”
Wiegman however paid a complimentary tribute to Earps for her success with England as she added: “Mary has made a huge contribution to not only the team, but the whole of English football.
“We will cherish those memories and of course give Mary the tributes she deserves after the summer but for now the focus needs to be on the upcoming UEFA Women’s Nations League fixtures and the EUROs.”
The FA have announced that a full celebratory tribute will follow at a home game in the autumn.
Earps had helped England to the 2019 SheBelieves Cup under Phil Neville before she went on to enjoy immense success under Wiegman, which included the 2022 UEFA Women’s Euros plus two Arnold Clark Cup titles and 2023 Women’s Finalissima.
Amongst countless individual honours during her time as England’s first-choice goalkeeper, Earps twice won BEST FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper in 2022 and 23 respectively, plus the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Glove which led her to be crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2023.