Jess Carter praises Mary Earps’ bravery after she announces retirement from international football | OneFootball

England defender Jess Carter calls Mary Earps ‘brave’ for making the decision to retire from international football ahead of the Euros this summer.

The Paris St. Germain keeper announced her shock retirement from the national team just five weeks before the Euros is set to begin.

Earps earned 53 England caps over eight years winning two FIFA Best Awards and a World Cup Golden Glove and Carter believes that every player has to make the best decisions for themselves to help the team.

“Initially the Euros didn’t even cross my mind,” Carter said. “My focus was just on the news of Mary leaving. It’s just really sad. I didn’t even think about the Euros. Firstly, the bravery that she has to stay true to herself and make the decision to leave.

“This is such a tough job to do for club and for country. Yes it’s a team sport but ultimately you have to be the best version of you in order for the team to be successful.

“I think it’s really brave the decision she has made. Sometimes it’s not about the team, it’s just about you. I’m really sad about it and I wish her all the best in what she does next.”

The 2022 EUROs winning keeper made the decision to retire from international football after losing her place to Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton. Carter insists that nothing will change for the team despite Earps not being in goal.

“For me I don’t think anything changes. We still try and do the same things as a a team whether that’s Mary or Hannah Hampton playing. Regardless of who is in goal, we stick to our gameplan because we’ve got excellent goalkeepers at England who can all step up.”

Both Earps and Carter were at Birmingham City in 2013 and have played together for England on a number of occasions since and the Gotham City defender says that the goalkeeper inspired confidence in her on the pitch.

“I love having a goalkeeper behind me that doesn’t stop talking. I can recall a few times where I’ve told her she can chill a little bit but it gives us so much confidence and confidence is key when playing. Knowing that she is there and talking and helping organise is great.”