Agency:
Mary Earps has announced her decision to retire from England duty, just months before the Lionesses defend their European Championship title this summer.
The goalkeeper won 53 caps and was part of the England squad that won the Euros in 2022.
Earps was also England’s No1 when they reached the World Cup final in 2023, winning the Golden Glove at the tournament and then BBC Sports Personality of the Year.
But the 32-year-old’s place in the side has come under threat recently from Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton.
Hampton has started the last three England games, including their 1-0 win over world champions Spain in February. Explaining her retirement, Earps has said she has taken the “difficult decision” to “step aside and give the younger generation an opportunity to thrive”.
Earps said: “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.
