Manchester United goalkeeper Mary Earps says that it is crazy to be England’s number one for the home UEFA Women’s EURO after thinking that she would never wear the jersey again.
Earps was handed a recall to the England squad following a lengthy absence when Sarina Wiegman took charge of the Lionesses back in September. The 29-year-old has made the first choice goalkeeping jersey her own and has gained the complete trust of her national team boss.
Prior to Wiegman’s arrival in England, Earps had not been fielded by the Lionesses for the best part of three years and she admits to thinking that her international career was over.
When speaking in the latest broadcast of Lionesses Live, Earps said “It’s been a crazy, crazy year! I’ve spoken about it a little bit, but I didn’t anticipate ever being in an England shirt again so I try to make the most of every single day in camp. I’m so grateful for the ups and downs that I’ve had and the journey that I’ve been on because I think it’s made me a stronger person and a stronger player. I’m even more grateful for every single time I get to kick a ball wearing the shirt.
“The people who saw a little bit of what I went through, they’re the ones who know what this really means to me and how much blood, sweat and tears has gone into it. I never expected anything from that point a few years ago. I was just trying to go out and do my best for Manchester United.
“A year on, after getting called back in, I’m here and it’s weird to reflect on it. I think after the tournament I’ll reflect on it properly, but right now I’m just zoned in on the job that I’ve got to do and what we as a team have got to do. I’m just really excited that I’m in this position.”
England arguably have one of the strongest Goalkeeping Unions at this summer’s EUROs and Earps went on to say that the competition for the number one jersey is very strong, although there is great camaraderie between the keepers.
She said “We have such a genuinely good group. I feel like people are probably sick of me saying it and they probably think I’m lying, but we push each other really hard in training and we challenge each other. We’ve created a really fun environment, but we know what we’re here to do. The job is serious and intense, but internally, we want to make sure that we’re having a good time and being present and making sure we’re making memories along the way.
“I’m a grafter but I also want to appreciate every day, not take a single moment for granted and just enjoy being on the ball and training with these incredible players. The goalkeepers group is so strong and the level is so high. I think that really challenges you as an individual and you want to bring your A-game every day.”
The latest edition of Lionesses Live can be viewed by clicking here.
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