England suffered a setback ahead of their crucial Euros qualifier against France as goalkeeper Mary Earps withdrew from the squad due to a hip injury. The 31-year-old was forced off the field during England’s 2-1 loss to Les Bleues, attempting to continue playing after receiving treatment but ultimately being substituted in the eighth minute. The Football Association (FA) confirmed that Earps had sustained a minor hip injury during the match at St James’s Park.
This injury comes as a blow to England, as they prepare to face France in a match that will determine automatic qualification for next year’s tournament. Both teams are vying for the top spot in their qualifying group. In Earps’ absence, Birmingham City goalkeeper Lucy Thomas, who was on the squad’s standby list, has been called up to join Sarina Wiegman’s team.
Earps, who reached her 50th senior England appearance in the game against France, seemed to strain her hip while making a pass to Millie Bright. Despite her efforts to continue playing, she was unable to carry on and was replaced by Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton. After the match, Earps was seen using crutches, indicating the severity of her injury.
The defeat against France dropped England to third place in their qualifiers group, with France currently leading and Sweden in second place. Only the top two teams from the group will secure automatic qualification for the Euros in Switzerland next year.
Looking ahead to their match against France, England’s Ella Toone expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back. Toone, who has 49 caps for England, emphasized the experience and resilience of the squad, stating, “We’ve got an experienced bunch of players in that changing room, players who have played in massive games. I’m sure that we can go out there with the same mindset that we always have, and that’s to win the game.”
Toone also stressed the importance of recovery and preparation leading up to the match, acknowledging that although the loss against France was disappointing, there is still time to rectify their mistakes. With a few more days until the crucial qualifier, England will focus on regrouping and giving their all to secure a victory on French soil.
Overall, England’s injury setback with Mary Earps adds an additional challenge to their already high-stakes match against France. However, the team remains optimistic and determined to bounce back, relying on their experience and resilience to secure a win and improve their chances of qualifying for the Euros.