Mary Earps named BBC Women's Footballer of the Year

It's been quite the year for superstar goalkeeper Mary Earps.

The England and Manchester United player won the Golden Glove as England reached the World Cup final in August, she was named the world's top goalkeeper at the Best Fifa Awards and she also recently crowned England Women's Player of the Year.

Well, she's now picked up another award to add to her growing collection.

Earps has been voted BBC Women's Footballer of the Year, beating the likes of women's Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati and Chelsea striker Sam Kerr!

Keep reading to find out more about the award and discover some top Mary Earps facts!

Earps' reacts to BBC Women's Footballer of the Year win

The five-player shortlist was chosen by a panel of experts and fans from across the world voted for their favourite player.

Earps was nominated alongside Chelsea's Sam Kerr, Barcelona's Aitana Bonmati and Fridolina Rolfo as well as Vfl Wolfsburg's Alexandra Popp.

It seems as the award came as a shock to the England star.

She said: "I am truly honoured.

"To be the first keeper to get their hands on the award is special and I am incredibly grateful."

Current women's Ballon d'Or holder Aitana Bonmati came second in the voting, while Chelsea and Australia forward Sam Kerr finished third.

Mary Earps facts

1. She's from Nottingham

Mary Earps grew up in the town of West Bridgford, near Nottingham city centre.

She first started playing football at the age of 10 at her local club West Bridgford Colts, where she realised she had a gift for goalkeeping.

Earps is a local star and even has a bus named after her in her hometown!

2. She's played club football abroad

She may be known as Manchester United's star goalie but did you know that's not the only club she's played for?

Among others Earps has previously played for Doncaster Rovers Belles, Birmingham City, Reading, and Bristol City - as well as a season at German giants VfL Wolfsburg.

3. She almost quit football

Just a couple of years ago, in 2021, Mary was considering her future in the sport, after a two-year absence from the England squad and with her Manchester United contract coming towards an end.

However, she signed a contract extension at United and was recalled to the England squad after the arrival of current England manager Sarina Wiegman.

4. Euro 2022

Earps made her name as England's number one keeper at the Euro 2022.

She started every game last summer as England were crowned European champions, making a number of key saves throughout the tournament.

5. Record breaker

England's number one goalkeeper has had a fantastic year both at club and international level.

Last season Earps kept a WSL record of 14 clean sheets - no goals allowed in - for Manchester United to win the Golden Glove award and help the Red Devils achieved their highest league finish - 2nd.