England goalkeeper Mary Earps has announced her shock retirement from international football – just five weeks before they begin their European Championship defence in Switzerland.
The 32-year-old played a significant role in the Lionesses winning Euro 2022 but had recently lost her starting place to Chelsea keeper Hannah Hampton.
Earps made 53 senior appearances over eight years for England, also winning the2023 Women’s Finalissimawith her countrybefore helping them reaching the final of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
England manager Sarina Wiegman said she was “disappointed” by Earps’ decision, having hoped she would play an “important role” this summer.
Speaking of her “difficult decision”, Earps said it was “the right time for me to step aside and give the younger generation an opportunity to thrive”.
‘Players disappointed’ – how retirement unfolded
In April, Wiegman confirmed Hampton was “a little bit ahead” of Earps in the battle to be England’s number one.
Earps was selected for the upcoming Women’s Nations League matches against Portugal and Spain this week, the final international camp before Wiegman finalises her Euro 2025 squad.
BBC Sport has been told Earps met with Wiegman before the camp and then announced her decision to the squad on Monday at St George’s Park.
Players were said to be disappointed that she would not be at the Euros to support the group.
Earps did not train on Monday and has left the camp.
“I had hoped that Mary [Earps] would play an important role within the squad this summer, so of course I am disappointed,” Wiegman said.