This video can not be played 'Sad' Wiegman and 'devastated' Williamson on Earps' retirement England captain Leah Williamson said she hopes Mary Earps' retirement from international football is "the best decision for her". The Paris St-Germain goalkeeper announced she had played her last game for Englandon Tuesday, just five weeks before the start of Euro 2025. The timing of her decision has received criticism but asked if she thought Earps' choice was a selfish one, Williamson said: "I think to arrive at that decision must be one of the hardest things in your career. "She is a human first and I hope Mary is OK and it's the best decision for her. We will miss her." Williamson, who celebratedwinning the Women's Champions Leaguewith Arsenal on Saturday, added: "I spoke to Mary, she's one of my closest friends in football - so I'm devastated, just because I love her, I love being her team-mate. "I think the way that she wears the England shirt is an example to us all so I'm very sad that those memories are not going to continue in an England shirt. "But for her, she thinks this is the best thing, and I'll support her in that always." Manager Sarina Wiegman said she was "really disappointed and sad" about Earps' decision - because she "wanted her in my team". She would not disclose details on the conversations she shared with Earps or when she first knew of the goalkeeper's intentions to step down. However, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Wiegman admitted the news came as a "shock" to the players. Earps played 53 games over eight years for England, winning the 2022 Euros, 2023 Women's Finalissima and helping them reach the 2023 World Cup final. The 32-year-old claimed the Fifa Best Goalkeeper award for two successive years but had recently lost her England starting place to Chelsea's Hannah Hampton. "That must have been a really hard decision for her and so it is for us," added Wiegman. "Of course, I have a couple of conversations which I don't want to share here because that's between us. It's hard, I find it hard, and it's hard for her at the same time. "She has done such a great job for England. She has made a massive difference and we've had an incredible journey so far. I really cherish that. "It's emotional because we also have a relationship and we've had such a massive journey together with lots of highs and, of course, some lows too. "That's what makes it really hard. But we have to move on and we don't have time now to celebrate because we're going into the Euros." When asked if she tried to convince Earps to stay, Wiegman added: "She knows I want her in the team, so of course, we talked about that." This video can not be played Earps elevated levels of goalkeeping in England Earlier this week, Chelsea captain Millie Brightwithdrew from the England squadfor their upcoming Nations League matches to take an extended break and allow a period of recovery. England welcome Portugal to Wembley on Friday (19:45 BST), before travelling to Barcelona to face Spain on Tuesday (18:00 BST). Bright, 31, who led Chelsea to a unbeaten domestic season and won the Treble, said she is "mentally and physically" at her limits and needs a break. Wiegman did not confirm if she will return in time for the Euros but says she hopes Bright can "take the time that will help her settle again in time". "She has to take care of herself. We are in conversations and I don't know where that gets to," added Wiegman. "We'll stay in contact and I hope she feels better soon, but I don't know that yet at the moment. "We have people around who can give that support. The demands on the game, on and off the pitch, has increased a lot. We have to adapt and that's not always easy." Williamson, who started every game alongside Bright at Euro 2022, said it was a "brave thing" for the Chelsea defender to speak out about. "I think for anybody to speak out about mental health is a brave thing to do. I think it encourages other people to do the same," said Williamson. "She's leading by example. I've given Millie a bit of space, when somebody is in that head space. But naturally, any support that she needs and anything that she needs from the team, we will be there to give it to her." This video can not be played Carter praises Earps for her 'bravery' after England retirement As well as Earps' retirement and Bright's withdrawal, there was a further blow for England this week when young Tottenham defender Ella Morris suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury after receiving her first senior call-up. The Football Association said they would continue to support 22-year-old Morris, who suffered the injury in training, throughout her recovery. "That is awful. She came in and did really well. [There was] no contact and unfortunately she tore her ACL," said Wiegman. "She's devastated, we're devastated and of course we wish her a good rehab, but that was kind of a shock that that happened." Elsewhere, Wiegman confirmed Manchester United defender Millie Turner's hopes of making the Euros squad are over after she fractured her foot last week. United midfielder Ella Toone and Arsenal forward Alessia Russo are also unavailable to face Portugal due to minor calf injuries. There was a more positive update regarding Chelsea forward Lauren James, while Wiegman confirmed team-mate Hampton will be England's number one goalkeeper going into the Euros. On James, she said: "She's in [recovery] still. She's in a good place, doing really well. We want - and she wants too - to get her back for the Euros. "So far she has ticked the boxes that she needs to tick and we're just progressing her. We just hope that she keeps moving forward and she can join us later on." Head here to get involved
'Devastated' Williamson hopes Earps has done right thing
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Leah Williamson and Sarina Wiegman Respond to Mary Earps' Retirement from International Football"
Bbc News
6.9
TruthLens AI Summary
Leah Williamson, the England women's football captain, expressed her support for Mary Earps following the goalkeeper's unexpected retirement from international football. Earps, who recently announced her decision just weeks before Euro 2025, has faced criticism regarding the timing of her departure. Williamson, who has a close friendship with Earps, conveyed her sadness over the situation, stating that it must have been an incredibly difficult choice for Earps to make. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing Earps' well-being, hoping that the decision was the right one for her friend. Williamson also reflected on Earps' exemplary commitment to the national team, noting that her absence will be deeply felt as they move forward without her.
Manager Sarina Wiegman echoed Williamson's sentiments, expressing her disappointment and surprise at Earps' retirement. Wiegman acknowledged the significant impact that Earps has had on the team over her eight-year career, during which she played 53 matches and contributed to England's success, including winning the 2022 Euros. The manager highlighted the emotional toll of losing a player who has been instrumental in their journey. The team is also facing additional challenges as Millie Bright has withdrawn from the squad to focus on her mental health, and young defender Ella Morris has suffered a serious injury. Despite these setbacks, Wiegman and Williamson emphasized the importance of supporting each other during these tough times, as they prepare for the upcoming competitions, including the Euros, while adjusting to the evolving demands of women's football.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The news article centers on the emotional reactions of England football captain Leah Williamson and manager Sarina Wiegman regarding Mary Earps' retirement from international football. Earps' announcement comes just weeks before the Euro 2025, leading to discussions about the implications of her decision, both personally and for the team.
Purpose of the Article
The article appears to serve multiple purposes. Primarily, it highlights the emotional weight of Earps' retirement, emphasizing the bond between players and the impact such decisions have on team dynamics. It aims to generate empathy for Earps and support for her choice, suggesting that personal well-being should take precedence over professional obligations. Additionally, it may be intended to spark discussions about player welfare and decision-making in sports.
Public Sentiment and Perception
The article cultivates an understanding that Earps’ decision, though criticized for its timing, is ultimately a personal one that deserves respect. It portrays the reactions of her teammates as supportive, which may foster a positive image of camaraderie within the England team. This sentiment is crucial for maintaining a supportive community among fans and players alike, especially during a significant tournament year.
Hidden Aspects or Information
While the article focuses on the emotional aspects of Earps' retirement, it does not delve into the potential reasons behind her decision, such as personal struggles, health issues, or recent performance changes. The mention of her losing the starting position to another goalkeeper could suggest underlying competitive pressures, which are left unexplored. This omission could mean that the article is steering readers away from a more critical analysis of the competitive environment within women's football.
Manipulative Elements
The language used is carefully crafted to evoke sympathy and support for Earps, potentially minimizing criticism for her decision. By emphasizing the emotional toll on both Williamson and Wiegman, the article frames the narrative in a way that discourages negative views of Earps’ retirement. This could be seen as manipulative if the intent is to rally support without addressing the broader implications of her decision on the team dynamics and competitive landscape.
Reliability of the Information
The article appears credible, drawing on quotes from known figures in women's football, such as Williamson and Wiegman. The emotional reactions and personal connections described are likely authentic, contributing to the article's reliability. However, the lack of a deeper examination into the reasons for Earps' retirement slightly diminishes the overall transparency of the narrative.
Impact on Society and Other Sectors
This news could influence public perception regarding player welfare in sports, particularly in women's football, where mental health and personal choices are increasingly coming to the forefront. It may lead to discussions about the pressures athletes face and the importance of prioritizing mental health, potentially affecting how teams and organizations approach player management in the future.
Target Audience
The article is likely aimed at football fans, particularly those invested in women's football, and the broader sports community. It seeks to resonate with individuals who value player welfare and emotional narratives within sports, fostering a sense of solidarity among readers.
Market and Economic Implications
While the immediate financial implications of this news may be limited, it could affect sponsorship and investment in women's football if public sentiment shifts towards a greater focus on player wellness. Teams and organizations that engage in supportive practices may attract more fans and sponsors.
Geopolitical Context
Although this news does not directly relate to global power dynamics, it ties into ongoing discussions about gender equality in sports. The visibility of women's football has been increasing, and Earps' retirement may serve as a touchpoint for larger conversations about women's roles in sports, potentially influencing social movements advocating for gender equity.
Use of AI in Article Composition
There is no evident indication that AI was used in writing this article. The emotional nuance and personal quotes suggest a human touch in capturing the sentiments of the players involved. However, if AI were involved, it might have contributed to structuring the narrative in a way that emphasizes emotional engagement, though this remains speculative.
The analysis indicates that while the article is primarily informative and evokes empathy, it could also be seen as somewhat manipulative in its framing. The emotional appeals may overshadow critical discussions about the factors influencing Earps’ retirement. Overall, the article holds a fair degree of reliability but could benefit from a more comprehensive exploration of the underlying issues.