Man Utd stopper Mary Earps sent message by Hannah Hampton as battle for Lionesses goalkeeping spot heats up

Earps picked up a hip injury in the first minute of a Euro 2025 qualifier against France last week which forced Sarina Wiegman to call upon Hampton to do the job between the sticks. Subsequently, the Red Devils' shot-stopper could not travel to Stade Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium in Saint-Etienne for the second encounter, providing Hampton with another opportunity to showcase her skills on the international stage.

Earps’ injury was a significant blow, considering her pivotal role in England's Euro 2022 triumph and their journey to the 2023 Women’s World Cup final. However, Hampton has shown that she is equal to the task with two impressive performances.

Hampton is in no mood to look back and remains determined to take further strides in her international journey.

"Being at a club like Chelsea and competing in all the competitions, you help put yourself in the window for your national team," Hampton told Chelsea's website. "I know if I perform at Chelsea, it gives me a good shot. I hope I can play for England a lot more and go on to do well and be successful with England."

Hampton made her Chelsea debut in December and has since become the Blues' first-choice goalkeeper. In fact, after her maiden top-flight appearance, no other goalkeeper kept more clean sheets in the Women’s Super League during this period, highlighting her exceptional form and consistency.

The battle for England's No.1 spot is set to grow more intense when Earps makes a comeback from her injury. Wiegman revealed that it is a minor setback and the keeper should be back in contention before the next international window in July. Earps' proven track record and Hampton's rising star status have created a dynamic that promises fireworks in the future. Regardless of who ultimately secures the starting position, England stand to benefit from the heightened level of competition and the relentless pursuit of excellence from both goalkeepers.