Tensions within the Lionesses squad have surfaced following revelations from former England goalkeeper Mary Earps regarding Hannah Hampton's return to the national team. In her upcoming autobiography, "All In," Earps voices her disagreement with the decision to reinstate Hampton after the latter had been dropped due to behavioral issues.
Earps, who was the Lionesses' first-choice goalkeeper until her recent retirement from international football, claims that Hampton's conduct during England's Euro 2022 campaign "frequently risked derailing training sessions and team resources". The details of the exact nature of the behavior have not been publicly disclosed, with Earps stating that it is not her place to reveal specifics. However, she emphasized that she felt there was a "mismatch, a misalignment, of values" between them.
Hampton was initially dropped from the squad following the 2022 Euros due to concerns about her "behaviour and attitude at England camps". Then-manager Sarina Wiegman declined to comment on the specific reasons for Hampton's dismissal, stating that it involved something personal. Hampton herself later admitted that the reports had a negative impact on her and that she considered leaving football.
Despite the prior issues, Hampton was eventually recalled to the squad in 2023. Earps writes that Wiegman consulted her about Hampton's return, to which Earps responded that it "doesn't make me feel comfortable". However, Wiegman reportedly stated that "everyone deserves a second chance".
The situation escalated when Wiegman informed Earps in April 2024 of her intention to play Hampton in a Euros qualifier. Earps says she protested, stating, "I don't get it. It's a qualifier match. And bad behaviour is being rewarded". This disagreement seemingly contributed to Earps's decision to retire from international football in May 2025, ahead of the Euros in Switzerland. Hampton subsequently took over as England's first-choice goalkeeper, playing a key role in the Lionesses' successful defense of their European title.
Despite the apparent friction, Hampton has dismissed claims of "bad blood" between herself and Earps. She surpassed Earps as England's first-choice goalkeeper going into Euro 2025. Earps retired from international football ahead of the tournament after discovering that she would play second fiddle to Hampton. It was noted that there was "awkwardness" when Earps handed Hampton the Yachine Trophy at the Ballon d'Or awards. Hampton told the Telegraph in June that Earps didn't deserve the "scrutiny" she faced after retiring from international football. Earps also said that she was "at peace" with her decision to retire before Euro 2025.
Earps's autobiography also delves into other personal struggles, including being bullied as a young player, facing criticism about her weight, and battling emotional difficulties during lockdown, which led to binge-eating and excessive alcohol consumption. She also reveals her same-sex relationship for the first time.
