Euro 2025: Who Starts for England? Hampton or Earps?
The Lionesses' triumph at the 2022 Women's Euros left England on a high, but as the countdown to Euro 2025 begins, one key question remains: who will be England's starting goalkeeper? The battle for the number one jersey is heating up, with two standout contenders – Mary Earps and Ellie Hampton – vying for the coveted spot.
The Incumbent: Mary Earps
Earps, the hero of the 2022 Euros, cemented her position as England's first-choice goalkeeper with her exceptional performances throughout the tournament. Her commanding presence, incredible shot-stopping ability, and composure under pressure earned her widespread acclaim. Her success was not a fluke. Earps boasts extensive experience with over 100 appearances for England, making her a veteran leader for the team.
However, Earps' position is not guaranteed. The emergence of Ellie Hampton has added a new dimension to the competition.
The Rising Star: Ellie Hampton
Hampton, at just 21 years old, has burst onto the scene with impressive performances for both club and country. Her athleticism, agility, and excellent distribution skills have caught the eye of many. Hampton's youth and dynamism offer a refreshing perspective and potentially a long-term solution for the England goalkeeping position.
The Battle for the Number One Jersey
The battle for the starting spot promises to be intense. While Earps' experience and proven track record give her a significant advantage, Hampton's youthful exuberance and potential make her a strong contender.
The selection for Euro 2025 will likely be a balancing act for England manager, Sarina Wiegman. She'll need to consider experience, form, and the team's overall needs when making her decision.
Here's what we can expect:
- Intense Competition: Both Earps and Hampton will be pushing each other to their limits in the months leading up to the tournament.
- Strong Performances: Each goalkeeper will need to consistently deliver exceptional performances for their respective clubs to make a strong case for selection.
- Managerial Decision: Wiegman will likely evaluate the strengths of each player and choose the goalkeeper who she believes best complements the team's playing style.
The Future of English Goalkeeping
The competition between Earps and Hampton is not just a battle for the starting spot; it's a reflection of the growing depth and talent within English goalkeeping. This healthy competition promises to benefit the national team and ensure a bright future for English goalkeeping.
Ultimately, whoever wins the coveted number one jersey, the England team can be confident they have a strong and reliable goalkeeper to lead them to success at Euro 2025.