Mary Earps claims she was 'villainised' after shock England retirement ahead of Euro 2025

Earps stunned Lionesses supporters by calling time on her England career just weeks before their defence of the European title begins, after falling behind Hannah Hampton in the goalkeeping pecking order. She has revealed the abuse she and her family received made her feel guilty on their behalf.

Earps told Fearne Cotton's Happy Place podcast: "I think I was villainised in a way, it was a bit hard to see and read things. It's more what my friends and family see and then the way they interact with me. I'm like, "Oh, I know you've seen something", and I'm upset for them because I'm like, "You didn't choose this. You've now got to deal with this". I'm then gutted for them and I don't really want to know what's being said, but it's coming out in comments."

Earps was one of three high-profile withdrawals ahead of the tournament. Fran Kirby announced her international retirement on the eve of the squad selection, while Millie Bright also withdrew.

England begin their Euros campaign against France on Saturday, before facing the Netherlands and Wales in a tough group.