Sarina Wiegman hopes Mary Earps will get the retirement send-off she “deserves” ahead of a celebration for the former Lionesses goalkeeper. The celebration is scheduled before the World Cup qualifier against Spain at Wembley on Tuesday.
Earps’ Retirement and Subsequent Fallout
Earps retired from international duty ahead of Euro 2025 last year. She played a key role for the Lionesses in their Euro 2022 triumph and run to the 2023 World Cup final, which led to her being recognised as the world’s best.
However, after losing her place to Hannah Hampton before last year’s Euros, Earps criticised Wiegman’s decision to restore Hampton to the Lionesses squad in her autobiography ‘All In’. The book made headlines following its release in November.
Earps then revealed regrets over comments made in the autobiography and said she “learned some tough lessons” during the fallout. Wiegman said she has put the incident behind her and hopes she will be given a warm reception at Wembley.
Wiegman’s Plea for a Positive Reception
Wiegman said, “It shows what she has done for the game, what she has done for England.” She added, “She is an inspiration for so many people, particularly young goalkeepers. She deserves a great farewell. I hope we celebrate her and it will be a nice moment.”
“I think some people have been disappointed, some people will be thinking she is inspirational, everyone will have an opinion. But let’s cherish the moments we had together. Mary had a great career and for us was the world’s best. She played important games and now she has moved on. Let’s all celebrate her.”
FA’s Efforts to Honour Retiring Players
The FA has made efforts to honour former England players following their international retirements. There was a send-off for Euros winner Fran Kirby before the friendly against China in November, as well as former captain Steph Houghton before a friendly with Germany in October 2024.
Earps’ Reflections on the Controversy
Earps said in February that she had a “positive conversation” with Wiegman and expressed regret at how the release of her autobiography was handled. “That was kind of my first rodeo with ‘cancel culture’, and 0 out of 10 – would not recommend to other people,” Earps told The Guardian.
“I take full responsibility for the book and the things that happened around the book. There were some tough lessons learned. I’m human. I’m not perfect, I’m still learning. I’m still growing as a person. I want to use those lessons going forward.”
Wiegman said England captain Leah Williamson is a doubt to face Spain in a rematch of the Euro 2025 final, while Keira Walsh could earn her 100th cap if she starts against the world champions.