July 21 – England goalkeeper Mary Earps says she is hurt and disappointed that fans cannot buy a replica of her shirt for the second tournament running.
Fans were unable to buy Earps’ kit during last summer’s Euros but she says she was told the issue would be resolved ahead of the World Cup.
The 30-year-old was named the world’s top goalkeeper at last year’s FIFA Best awards.
England’s kit for the World Cup is manufactured by Nike but the company has no current sponsorship of female goalkeepers.
Replicas of Earps’ kit with Manchester United, who she plays for in the Women’s Super League, sold out last season.
“All my team-mates have ordered a lot of shirts for their friends and family,” said Earps. “On a personal level, it is hugely hurtful. There has been an incredible rise in goalkeeping participation. It’s a very scary message that’s being sent to goalkeepers worldwide that “you’re not important”.
“I can’t really sugar-coat this in any way, so I am not going to try. It is hugely disappointing and very hurtful.”
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