Mary Earps wins FIFA Best Women’s Goalkeeper award and is included in elite XI with SIX England teammates
Mary Earps has added yet more awards to her collection by winning the Women's Goalkeeper prize at the FIFA Best awards.
The England and Manchester United hero was also included in the FIRPro Women's World XI, alongside six Lionesses teammates.
Earps, who won the prize last year, scoops the award again after a stunning 2023.
«Last year I won the award, but didn't get in the team of the year — this year I thought it might be the other way around,» she said in her acceptance speech.
«Thank you to all my coaches for England and United. I am just blown away.
»I talk a lot about how it wasn't the easiest journey here, I took the scenic route, but looking back now, it all makes sense.
«It made me so much more prepared for the challenges I face today, and not to take a day for granted.
»If you are struggling, keep going. It is never too late to be who you are — 2023 showed we can change the world if we speak out against injustice, so let's keep doing that."
On the field she played a huge role in England's route to the Women's World Cup final, saving a penalty against Spain in a clash that ultimately ended in defeat.
She was also part of the Man United team that lost the FA Cup final, however, Earps has won plenty of individual accolades for her efforts in 2023.
The 30-year-old was crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year in December as well as the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year, while also winning the Golden Glove award at the World Cup.
As mentioned, Earps made it into the Women's XI at the FIFA Best awards alongside England teammates Lucy Bronze, Alex Greenwood, Lauren James, Alessia Russo, Ella Toone and Keira Walsh.
However, the FIFA Best Women's Player evaded Earps with Spain and Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati winning
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