Earps 'doesn't know' if she's ready for spotlight again

Former England goalkeeper Mary Earps does not know if she is ready to be back in the spotlight after signing for the London City Lionesses.

Former England goalkeeper Mary Earps has admitted she is unsure whether she is ready to return to the spotlight after signing for the London City Lionesses. The 32-year-old shot-stopper, who was a key figure in England's run to the 2023 Women's World Cup final, joined the Championship side as a free agent following her departure from Manchester United last summer. Earps, who won the Golden Glove at the World Cup, has been without a club for several months before making the move to the second-tier team. In an interview, Earps revealed that the past few months have been challenging, and she needs time to adapt to the intense scrutiny that comes with being a high-profile player. She emphasized that while she is eager to return to the pitch, her mental preparation is not yet complete. Earps stressed that she wants to focus on football itself, rather than the off-field distractions. The London City Lionesses, though less glamorous than Manchester United, offer her a fresh start and a chance to rebuild her career. During her time at Manchester United, Earps helped the club win the Women's FA Cup and made numerous crucial saves. However, with changes in the squad, she gradually lost her starting spot. Ultimately, she decided to leave in search of new challenges. The London City Lionesses are currently pushing for promotion to the Women's Super League, and Earps' arrival is expected to significantly bolster their defense. On the international front, Earps remains an important figure for the England women's national team. Although she has temporarily withdrawn from national team camps, head coach Sarina Wiegman has stated that the door remains open for her. Earps herself emphasized that she has not given up on representing her country, but she needs to secure regular playing time at the club level first. Reactions to Earps' decision have been mixed. Some believe that choosing a lower-tier league is a wise move to avoid excessive pressure, while others worry it might affect her competitive edge. Earps, however, appears calm, stating that she has learned to handle external opinions and that enjoying football is now her top priority. The London City Lionesses' head coach has welcomed Earps' arrival, praising her experience and leadership as assets for the younger players. The team currently sits near the top of the Championship and is aiming for promotion to the WSL next season. Earps' signing is a major boost for their ambitions. Looking ahead, Earps said she will not set overly ambitious goals but will focus on regaining her form step by step. She believes that with dedication and hard work, returning to her peak is only a matter of time. She thanked fans for their support and asked for patience as she settles into her new environment.

Earps 'doesn't know' if she's ready for spotlight again

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