Nike address Mary Earps kit controversy with fans furious they can’t buy Lionesses’ goalkeeper top

Nike are ‘working towards a solution’ after being criticised by fans desperate to buy Mary Earps’ England kit.

Despite losing to Spain in the World Cup final, the Manchester United goalkeeper has seen her fame soar to new heights due to her wonderful performances for the Lionesses.

But despite being one of the highest-profile stars in world football, fans are unable to purchase Earps’ shirt due to Nike refusing to stock the England goalkeeper jersey.

The 30-year-old was told her kit was not sold last summer for England’s Euros triumph due to manufacturing issues and that the issue would not happen again.

However, unlike the home and away jerseys, fans are still unable to get their hands on the goalkeeping attire for the Women’s World Cup as reports say it is not part of Nike’s commercial strategy.

Fans have been left furious by the decision, leading Nike to issue a statement on Sunday night to say that they’re working to find a solution to the problem.

The statement 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.”

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Earps was vocal in her criticism of Nike’s decision, telling The Guardian: “It is something I have been fighting behind closed doors.

“I have been trying to go through the correct channels as much as possible, which is why I have not spoken on it publicly – even though I have been asked a lot about it over the past few months – because I have been desperately trying to find a solution with the FA and with Nike.

“Unfortunately, it has become very evident that is not possible and there is not going to be an acceptable solution for the young kids out there.

“On a personal level, it is hugely hurtful considering the last 12 months especially. There has been an incredible rise in goalkeeping participation.”

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