In the most recent Lionesses international, a Euro 2025 qualifier away against Republic of Ireland, Hannah Hampton started and kept a clean sheet. Four days earlier, Manchester United’s Mary Earps had played against Sweden, taking her total caps to 49.

It was a similar situation when Earps was rested for one game back in February and this week, England coach Sarina Wiegman spoke of Hampton, who has four caps, growing into competition with Earps, her regular first-choice.

Emma Hayes signed Hampton last summer as a 22-year-old and at Chelsea, the young goalkeeper is also competing for a place against other internationals, with Ann-Katrin Berger and Zecira Musovic also in the squad. So far, she has been the most selected this season.

‘Hannah has come into the club and fought really hard to get into the position she's in,’ says Hayes.

‘She knew and accepted what that was when she came to the club. That is why I think it's always important for the players to trust their own hearts about the things that matter most, and she has grown and learned in many ways. I've said this to many people, she's been an absolute joy to coach.

‘She’s like a sponge, so coachable, and really infectious, she gives a lot of energy to the group.’

The manager adds that Hampton dealt really well with the situation earlier in the season when was not playing.

‘I also think that's easier as a younger goalkeeper. She's had to accept there are still things she has to grow up with, but she's doing them and I'm proud of how she's developing.’

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