'Hard to answer' - Lionesses star Mary Earps opens up on future plans after feeling like a 'punching bag' at Man Utd

The Lionesses hero has been linked with a move away from the Women's Super League team for some time, with English rivals Arsenal said to be lining up a bid. Her contract expires this summer and United boss Marc Skinner said he hopes she has not played her final game for the club after they were beaten 6-0 by Chelsea in the last round of WSL fixtures on Saturday.

Earps was pressed on her future on Monday and the 31-year-old assured that she is still in talks with the Red Devils about committing to a new deal with the club. However, the shot stopper admitted that she still has grievances and concerns that must be dealt with before she will make a decision on her future.

Asked whether her future lies at or away from United, Earps told Sky Sports: "It's hard to answer. I think the honest reality is that conversations are still ongoing. I've been clear that I don't want to make an emotional decision. The beginning of the season was really tough. I felt really upset about things that were being said about me that kind of came out that weren't true. But I've tried to be professional, keep my head down, work hard, just kind of get on with my job, and that's been hard. I think I've been a punching bag at times and I've tried to shoulder that responsibility of the team, the performance and where we fell short this season. I think that's wwhat you should do as a leader and as a more experienced player. You have to stand up in those moments and give everything, and I know I've given my heart and soul for the whole season. So, yeah, it's a tough situation. The conversations are still ongoing with my contract. I've asked the club for some confirmation on what they're trying to achieve. When I have those answers then I'll be able to make those decisions, so kind of it's up to the club."

Earps will soon report for England duty as Sarina Wiegman's team prepare to face France in a double header of Women's Euro 2025 qualifying matches. United fans will hope for good news regarding her club future before the new WSL season begins.