Mary Earps has retired from international football with immediate effect.
The goalkeeper will not be part of England’s defence of the Women’s Euros this summer.
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Earps has announced she has ended her Lionesses career after eight years in the side.
During that time, she won 53 caps and was twice named the Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper.
The Paris Saint-Germain stopper also won the golden glove at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where she saved a penalty in the final.
Earps had been part of the Lionesses side which won the Women’s Euros on home soil the previous year.
In a statement confirming her retirement, the 32-year-old said: “I have taken the difficult decision to retire internationally.
“It has been the greatest honour and privilege of my life, to wear this badge, represent my country and play alongside such an incredible group of players.
“I’ve spent a long time making this decision and it’s not one I’ve made lightly.
“For me, ultimately this is the right time for me to step aside and give the younger generation an opportunity to thrive.
“Winning the EUROs in 2022 was the best day of my life, and I’m rooting for the girls to do it again this summer.”
Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman said: “I had hoped that Mary would play an important role within the squad this summer, so of course I am disappointed.
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“Mary has been clear on her reasons why she has made the decision and it is something we need to accept.
“Mary has made a huge contribution to not only the team, but the whole of English football.
“We will cherish those memories and of course give Mary the tributes she deserves after the summer but for now the focus needs to be on the upcoming UEFA Women’s Nations League fixtures and the EUROs.”
England have confirmed goalkeepers Hannah Hampton, Khiara Keating and Anna Moorhouse as part of their latest 26-player squad.
Wiegman’s side face Portugal at Wembley Stadium in the Women’s Nations League on Friday before facing Spain away on June 3.
The defending European champions will then take on France, the Netherlands and Wales in the group stage of the Euros in Switzerland in July live on talkSPORT.
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Several Lionesses stars have paid tribute to Earps’ career on social media following her announcement.
Lauren Hemp commented on the news: “Privilege to have played alongside you.”
Alex Greenwood also wrote: “Been a privilege, from U15s to European champions together. Legend.”
Meanwhile, Beth Mead added: “Absolute legend. It’s been a pleasure.”
A tribute to Earps’ Lionesses career will be made at a Lionesses match after the summer.
Reacting to the news, talkSPORT’s Shebahn Aherne said: “Mary Earps not being part of the Lionesses squad is huge. Mary Earps represents what the Lionesses are and what they’ve achieved so far in what feels like a short journey so far.
“Even though she wasn’t the captain, she brought such leadership and presence to that back line.
“That woman will do whatever she wants. She will take on Nike and she’ll win, she’ll make sure goalkeeper shirts with Earps on the back are available to be bought.
“Not only that, she is just a huge credit for what she has done for her clubs and country.
“I cannot believe this news. Mary Earps you are not just a brilliant goalkeeper and wicked character, you are a household name and I hope retirement from international football is good to you.”
