Mary Earps (Mary Alexandra Earps MBE), born on March 7, 1993, in Nottingham, England, is a prominent English professional footballer who has made significant contributions to women's football as a goalkeeper. Currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in France's Ligue 1, Earps is celebrated for her remarkable performances with the England national team and her club career in the Women's Super League (WSL).
Mary Earps Early Life and Youth Career
Earps began her football journey at a young age, playing for local clubs West Bridgford Colts and later Leicester City. She transitioned to more competitive environments with stints at Nottingham Forest and Doncaster Rovers Belles. Her dedication and talent were evident early on, leading her to pursue a professional career in football.
Professional Career
Club Career
Earps' professional career includes notable spells at various clubs:
- Birmingham City: After moving from Doncaster Rovers Belles, she made her mark in the WSL.
- Bristol Academy: Continued her development before moving to Reading, where she gained valuable experience.
- VfL Wolfsburg: In 2018, she signed with the German club, furthering her career in the Bundesliga before returning to England.
- Manchester United: In 2019, Earps joined Manchester United as they were newly promoted to the WSL. She quickly became a key player, helping the team achieve significant milestones, including reaching the FA Cup final and finishing second in the league during the 2022-23 season.
In February 2024, she played a crucial role in securing Manchester United’s first-ever Women’s FA Cup title. After five successful years at Old Trafford, Earps made the move to PSG in June 2024.
International Career
Earps has been an integral part of the England national team since making her debut in June 2017 against Switzerland. Over her international career:
- She has represented England at various levels including under-17, under-19, and under-23.
- At the 2022 UEFA Women’s Euro, she played every minute of all six matches as England won their first major tournament.
- During the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, she served as vice-captain and was awarded the Golden Glove for best goalkeeper of the tournament after keeping three clean sheets and conceding only four goals throughout the competition.
Achievements and Recognition
Mary Earps' performances have earned her numerous accolades:
- Individual Awards: She received the Golden Glove at the World Cup and was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2023. Additionally, she was recognized as England Women's Player of the Year for the 2022-23 season.
- MBE Honor: In recognition of her contributions to football, Earps was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in early 2023.
Her achievements have not only highlighted her skills as a goalkeeper but have also contributed to raising the profile of women's football globally.
Playing Style
Earps is known for her commanding presence in goal, exceptional shot-stopping ability, and leadership qualities. Standing at 5 feet 8 inches tall, she combines agility with strong positioning to make crucial saves. Her experience and tactical awareness have made her a reliable figure for both club and country.
Off-the-Pitch Contributions
Beyond her footballing prowess, Mary Earps is recognized for her advocacy for women's sports and equality within football. She has spoken out on various issues affecting female athletes and continues to inspire future generations through her achievements and dedication to the sport.
Mary Earps Conclusion
Mary Earps' journey from grassroots football to becoming one of the top goalkeepers in women's football is a testament to her talent and hard work. As she embarks on this new chapter with Paris Saint-Germain after an illustrious career at Manchester United, fans eagerly anticipate her continued impact on both club and international stages. With numerous accolades already to her name and a commitment to advocating for women's football, Earps is poised to leave an enduring legacy in the sport.
