October 10 – Following months of anticipation and controversy, Nike has at long last unveiled a limited batch of highly sought-after Mary Earps England kits, causing a frenzy as they flew off the shelves within a matter of hours.
The kits were sold in limited quantities on the FA website. The sale included England goalkeeper shirts in the home, away and third variants.
The sportswear giant originally came under fire from fans and Earps herself for not selling England goalkeeper kits, with the Manchester United goalkeeper calling Nike’s decision “hugely disappointing and very hurtful”.
Earps was told her kit was not sold in 2022 for England’s Euros triumph due to manufacturing issues, with the player being assured that the issue would not happen again. Despite the Lionesses’ inspiring World Cup campaign in the summer, a bitter taste was left over Nike’s treatment of the best goalkeeper in women’s football for the second straight competition.
Nike’s decision changed thanks to the launch of a change.org petition campaigning for the sale of the shirt, which received the support of more than 150,000 signatures.
Earps was voted the world’s top goalkeeper at the FIFA Best awards last year and has been a mainstay in the England team, forming a huge part of their success.
After news of the sell-out on Monday, Earps took to Instagram to express her delight, posting on her stories: “Didn’t realise these were going on sale today. And you’ve sold them out already!
“More are coming before the end of the year, and in more sizes for kids and adults – so stay tuned.
“Thank you all for your incredible support on this. You guys have made this happen.”
Earps returns to action this evening in Manchester United’s UEFA Women’s Champions League opener against PSG. Her side will be looking to return to winning ways after being held 2-2 at home to Arsenal at the weekend.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1714301266labto1714301266ofdlr1714301266owedi1714301266sni@g1714301266niwe.1714301266yrrah1714301266