Former England goalkeeper Mary Earps believes she was "villainised" after retiring from international duty ahead of Euro 2025.
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Earps retired from international dutyWas due at Euro 2025Claims she was "villainised" for decisionFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Earps stunned Lionesses supporters by calling time on her England career just weeks before their defence of the European title begins, after falling behind Hannah Hampton in the goalkeeping pecking order. She has revealed the abuse she and her family received made her feel guilty on their behalf.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportWHAT EARPS SAID
Earps told Fearne Cotton's Happy Place podcast: "I think I was villainised in a way, it was a bit hard to see and read things. It's more what my friends and family see and then the way they interact with me. I'm like, "Oh, I know you've seen something", and I'm upset for them because I'm like, "You didn't choose this. You've now got to deal with this". I'm then gutted for them and I don't really want to know what's being said, but it's coming out in comments."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Earps was one of three high-profile withdrawals ahead of the tournament. Fran Kirby announced her international retirement on the eve of the squad selection, while Millie Bright also withdrew.
Getty Images EntertainmentWHAT NEXT FOR THE LIONESSES?
England begin their Euros campaign against France on Saturday, before facing the Netherlands and Wales in a tough group.