مدير عام كرة القدم
- Hampton saves two pens with bloody nose
- 24-year-old steps up after replacing retired Earps
- Jokes she’s ‘better with one nostril’
Hampton was the hero in England‘s dramatic penalty shootout victory over Sweden, saving two spot-kicks to help secure a 3-2 win after a 2-2 draw. She suffered a bloody nose during extra time but played through it to complete a memorable night.
Speaking to the media, Hampton said about her bloody nose: “I thought I’d gotten away with it at first because there was nothing coming out. Then I sat up and [blood] just started streaming. As a few other girls say, I’m better with one nostril, so I think I might have it [a tissue up a nostril] again in the next game.”
Hampton’s rise comes after a turbulent spell with the national team, including public doubts about her attitude and the fallout from Earps’ international retirement. On her rise into the squad, she added: “The girls have got behind me a lot. They know how tough it’s been for me while being in and around the England environment. To be able to go out and help them tonight and for the whole team to put on a performance like we did, it’s a lovely moment.
“All the girls were ecstatic. They’ve seen the hard work that I’ve put in and how difficult it’s been. They’ve helped me get to this point, and I’m happy to be wearing an England shirt again. I just want to do whatever I can for the team to get that win.”
Thursday’s performance was a defining moment in Hampton’s England career. Her courage and composure under pressure show she’s more than ready to wear the No.1 shirt. England will now focus on recovering from a bruising quarter-final ahead of their semi-final clash with Italy. The Lionesses will hope her form continues as they look to defend their Euros title.
