England Earps wary of lack of Nike goalkeeper shirts

July 21: England goalkeeper Mary Earps says she is hurt and disappointed that fans won't be able to buy a replica of her shirt for the second tournament in a row.

Fans weren't able to buy Earps' kit at last summer's Euros, but she says she was told the issue would be resolved before the World Cup.

The 30-year-old was named the world's best goalkeeper in last year's FIFA Best awards.

England's World Cup kit is made by Nike, but the company currently has no goalkeeper sponsorship.

Replica kits for Earps with Manchester United, for whom she plays in the Women's Super League, were sold last season.

"All of my teammates have ordered lots of jerseys for their friends and family," Earps said. "On a personal level, it's extremely hurtful. There's been an incredible increase in goalkeeper participation. It's a very scary message being sent to goalkeepers all over the world that 'you're not important'.

"I can't really sugarcoat this in any way, so I'm not going to try. It's extremely disappointing and very hurtful."

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