MARY EARPS helped the Lionesses make it to the final of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
The Manchester United star, who has 40 caps for England since 2017, was part of Sarina Wiegman‘s England squad at the FIFA tournament.
England goalkeeper Mary Earps has spoken out about Nike’s refusal to sell her shirt to the public Elsa – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Can I buy the Women’s World Cup goalkeeper shirt?
Mary Earps gave a number of impressive performances at the World Cup but unfortunately, fans are unable to get their hands on her goalkeeper top.
Unlike the shirts of her teammates, Earps’ top, manufactured by Nike, is not on sale to the public.
Home and away kits are available for every other Lioness player.
It has been reported that Nike believe that goalkeepers’ tops do not sell well.
The decision sparked outrage from football fans, with some even taking to writing to the clothing company to try and make them change their minds.
One teen football fan said Nike “should be embarrassed” after they failed to respond to a letter she wrote them before the FIFA Women’s World Cup had started.
Nike then came under fire from Earps’ fans once again after they omitted the star from a congratulatory post for the Lionesses.
The company posted a montage image of the Lionesses on social media ahead of the World Cup final, but left Earps out of the picture.
Lauren Hemp, Ella Toone and Lucy Bronze were some of the players included in the montage.
What has Mary Earps said about Nike’s decision?
Earps has spoken out about Nike’s decision to not sell her top.
She said in July 2023: “I can’t really sugarcoat this anyway so I’m not going to try.
“It’s hugely disappointing and very hurtful.”
She continued: “It’s something that I’ve been fighting behind closed doors.
“I’ve been desperately trying to find a solution with the FA and with Nike.
“For my own family, friends and loved ones not to be able to buy my shirt, they’re just going to come out and wear normal clothes.
“All my team-mates, they’ve ordered a lot of shirts for their friends and family.”
She added: “What you are saying is that goalkeeping isn’t important, but you can be a striker if you want.”
FA boss Mark Bullingham has also spoken about the backlash to Nike’s refusal to sell the shirts.
He told ITV News Sports Editor Steve Scott that the organisation has “a plan in place” to resolve fans’ disappointment.
Bullingham said: “I will say that Nike have been a great partner in supporting us in every way out here and we can see how we have a tremendous opportunity to grow women’s goalkeeping and I’m sure they will be a part of that going forwards.”