Rachel Brown-Finnis Honors Mary Earps Amid Controversy

The legacy of goalkeeper Mary Earps is under scrutiny following controversial remarks in her autobiography. Former England international Rachel Brown-Finnis expressed her desire for Earps to be remembered for her historic achievements rather than the recent media uproar.

Earps, currently with Paris Saint Germain, created headlines by questioning Sarina Wiegman’s decision to replace her with Hannah Hampton as England’s first-choice goalkeeper ahead of Euro 2025. Her candid revelations about private conversations with Wiegman and criticism of Hampton have drawn significant backlash.

Concerns Over Earps’ Reputation

Brown-Finnis, who once played alongside Earps, articulated her concern that the media frenzy could overshadow Earps’ remarkable contributions to women’s football. “I just hope Mary Earps is remembered for being the first ever female goalkeeper to win the Euros with the Lionesses and being the first ever English player to be voted the world’s best goalkeeper, not for anything else,” she stated in an interview with FourFourTwo.

Reflecting on Earps’ journey, Brown-Finnis shared, “When I was in the England squad, Mary was my number three goalkeeper and she’s admitted there were times she never thought she’d be England number one. So for her to come in, be backed by Sarina Wiegman, be that number one and carry that position so well, going toe to toe with Nike to make sure England goalkeeper shirts could be bought in a landmark agreement and carrying the mantle to elevate the position, she should be remembered for that.”

Supporting Young Cancer Patients

Brown-Finnis made these remarks while attending an event for The Pools Foundation, which celebrated its launch by donating £100,000 to the Teenage Cancer Trust. This cause is particularly close to her heart, as she has witnessed the challenges faced by young cancer patients through her nephew’s battle with blood cancer.

“The donation will make such a difference to young people who are going through such a trying, testing time,” Brown-Finnis noted. Her personal experience informs her understanding of the struggles these teenagers face. “My little nephew was younger than a teenager, but went through exactly what these teenagers are going through. He’s come out the other end thankfully after three or four years of being hospitalised.”

Brown-Finnis emphasized the impact of support services, stating, “I know first hand what these young people are going through, how it shapes their life, but also some of the help provided, what joy that brings and what life-affirming experiences these young people can have through helpers like the Teenage Cancer Trust.”

As the conversation around Earps’ remarks continues, the focus remains on her achievements and the important contributions she has made to women’s football, ensuring that her legacy is defined by her on-field accomplishments rather than recent controversies.