FORMER England goalkeeper Mary Earps says she has received an “overwhelming show of love and support” since opening up about her mental-health struggles.
is set to release her in which she pays tribute to her partner after broaching her sexuality for the first time.
Former Lioness keeper Mary Earps is one of the biggest stars in the women’s gameCredit: Getty
Her teammates and have both given support to the legend, while messages have poured in from across the women’s football community and beyond.
The women’s football icon is also set to appear on her friend Peter Crouch’s podcast next week to discuss her new book, All In, which explores her life and career on and off the pitch in candid detail.
Mary’s manager, Tina Taylor, said: “Mary’s received an overwhelming show of love and support from people across the game and from fans all over the world.
“There’s been a huge amount of kindness and encouragement sent her way, and we’re so grateful for that.
“She’s always sought to keep her private life very private, but felt it would be inauthentic not to talk about this in her book. The positive reaction has been incredible to see.”
Sarah Garrett MBE, founder of the British LGBT Awards, also praised Mary, describing her as an “inspirational role model”.
She said: “Her decision to talk about being in a same-sex relationship will help huge numbers of young people who may be struggling with their sexuality.
“I hope she realises that she’s changing young people’s lives by being her true self – and that being LGBTQ+ should never be a barrier to success.”
Gerard Bowers-McIntyre, Chair of LGBTQ+ charity Sahir, said: “Mary’s decision to share the details of her coming out story and same-sex relationship with the world marks a massive milestone for the sporting profession.
Mary has already written her name in the history books of , but this truth and honesty is a more poignant and inspiring moment for the future generation.”
The book, All In: Football, Life and Learning to be Unapologetically Me is already flying up the pre-order sales chart. It is due for release on November 9th.
In it, she praises her girlfriend, Kitty, thanking her publicly for helping her deal with the pressures of fame.
Tonight, Mary said: “I’ve always tried to keep my personal life separate from my professional one, but it would have felt inauthentic not to include something so important to me in this book.
“I’m in a really happy relationship. The people closest to me have always known, and I feel ready and happy to share that with everyone now.”
The England legend speaks about her mental health struggles in her new bookCredit: PA
Mary’s book is already surging up the pre-order list ahead of its releaseCredit: Supplied 
