Mary Earps responds to Nike's latest statement over England GK kit controversy

Mary Earps has responded to Nike’s latest statement over the England goalkeeper kit controversy.

England supporters are currently unable to purchase replica Earps goalkeeper shirts with Nike saying they will only look into the matter ‘for future tournaments’.

Earps massively impressed at the Women’s World Cup and saved a penalty in Sunday’s final as the Lionesses finished as runners-up to Spain.

The Manchester United star left the tournament with the Golden Glove but there have been disappointed England fans unable to buy her replica shirt.

Nike’s decision was described as ‘hugely hurtful’ by Earps, who even offered to pay for the shirts herself.

Nike released a statement after the final but Earps has aimed a dig at the company as she posted on her Instagram story on Tuesday.

‘@Nike, is this your version of an apology / taking accountability / a powerful statement of intent?’ Earps wrote alongside an eyebrow-raised emoji.

Earps then posted a link to a petition on Change.org calling for Nike to starting selling her replica England shirt, which has more than 97,000 signatures.

Nike’s statement on Sunday read: ‘Nike is committed to women’s football and we’re excited by the passion around this year’s tournament and the incredible win by the Lionesses to make it into the final.

‘We are proudly offering the best of Nike innovation and services to our federation partners and hundreds of athletes.

‘We hear and understand the desire for a retail version of a goalkeeper jersey and we are working towards solutions for future tournaments, in partnership with Fifa and the federations.

‘The fact that there’s a conversation on this topic is testament to the continued passion and energy around the women’s game and we believe that’s encouraging.’

Speaking about Nike’s decision, Earps said last month: ‘It’s hugely disappointing and very hurtful. It’s a very scary message that’s being sent to goalkeepers worldwide that ‘you’re not important’ – it’s something that I’ve been fighting. I’ve been desperately trying to find a solution with the FA and with Nike.’

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