Hampton’s Ascent to England’s Goalkeeping Throne
Diagnosed with a severe eye condition at birth, England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was initially advised against pursuing a football career by medical professionals.
The 24-year-old has undergone multiple surgical procedures to improve her vision; however, her sight remains imperfect, and she continues to experience depth perception challenges.
Her remarkable journey, defying initial prognoses, has culminated in her selection as England’s starting goalkeeper heading into Euro 2025.
“Throughout my life, I’ve strived to prove doubters wrong,” Hampton shared.
“From a young age, I was told a football career was unattainable. Yet, here I am.”
Hampton’s path has been marked by setbacks; her professional journey hasn’t been without its obstacles.
Months after contributing to England’s Euro 2022 triumph, she was dropped from the national team.
This setback served as a catalyst, propelling her resurgence to the pinnacle of the sport. This is a narrative of perseverance.
Upon Carla Ward’s appointment as Birmingham City manager in 2020, she’d already learned of the young Hampton’s potential.
“Our initial conversation focused on her aspirations,” Ward told BBC Sport.
“She possessed a captivating personality, a characteristic common among goalkeepers. However, her articulation was exceptionally mature for her age.
“It was on the second day that I witnessed firsthand the talent everyone had spoken about. She’s one of the most gifted individuals I’ve ever coached.
“While talent varies, she was clearly born to play football.”
Hampton secured a first-team spot at 16, transitioning from forward to goalkeeper, and quickly gained recognition within England’s youth teams.
Her then-international manager, Rehanne Skinner, had observed her talent firsthand.
“Her ambidexterity is exceptional. Few players can strike the ball with such precision and distance from their weaker foot,” Skinner noted.
During an England Under-19s match against Sweden, Skinner’s instruction to Hampton was simple: launch long passes.
“Hampton registered an assist within the first ten minutes, and we won 4-0. Goalkeepers rarely possess such capabilities,” Skinner remarked.
“Through maturation, supportive environments, and dedicated behind-the-scenes work, she’s honed and maximized her strengths.”
Those familiar with Hampton consistently highlight her technical prowess and ball control.
Former Birmingham and England teammate Ellen White mentioned Hampton’s participation in ‘rondos’, external during training, and that playing outfield positions felt natural to her.
However, when Hampton publicly disclosed the details of her eye condition—strabismus—White acknowledged it surprised many.
“She likely employs compensatory strategies, but it’s imperceptible during training. She’s fearless and embraces any challenge,” White added.
“Her passing range is unmatched, her movements and dives are exceptional, and her ball control is superb. She’s among the most exciting young goalkeepers globally.
“Perhaps she’s inspired others who thought a goalkeeping career was beyond their reach.”
Carla Ward (right) managed Hannah Hampton at Birmingham City and Aston Villa
As with many young players thrust into the spotlight, White admitted Hampton displayed some immaturity early in their Birmingham City partnership.
“Her emotions sometimes overwhelmed her, as is typical for a 16-year-old, requiring navigation of both highs and lows.
“Not every shot is saved. Managing her emotions demanded time, experience, and understanding.
“I offered mentorship and guidance. Even then, I recognized her immense potential as a goalkeeper, although she needed support.”
Hampton progressed through England’s ranks, making her senior debut against eventual world champions Spain in 2022.
She was part of the Euro 2022 winning squad, but months later, her career faced a significant setback.
Reports suggested behavioral issues led to her omission from the England squad. Her return wasn’t until March 2023, with manager Sarina Wiegman stating Hampton had “resolved personal matters”.
Discussing this period, Hampton described the reports as “hurtful” and, on the Fozcast podcast, external, revealed she contemplated quitting football.
“As a young player, the media scrutiny was unexpected and unprepared for,” she told reporters on Tuesday.
“Every team member faces adversity, but mutual support helps overcome challenges.
“Allowing media attention to dictate my path wasn’t an option. I was determined to showcase my true character and demonstrate that the negative portrayal wasn’t accurate.
“My resolve led me to prove those who doubted me wrong.”
Ward managed Hampton at Aston Villa, having brought her from Birmingham.
She addressed questions about Hampton’s situation in press conferences and left her out of a match against Chelsea, prioritizing the team’s “best interests”.
“Sarina, myself, and Hannah were aligned on supporting her,” Ward reflected.
“It was challenging for Hannah, but ultimately a pivotal moment, realizing the strong support system she had.
“She was a young player who simply needed support.”
White, who captained England during Hampton’s debut, retired from international football shortly before Hampton’s omission from the squad.
However, White believed Hampton “needed time” to mature, a belief she felt was achieved under former Chelsea manager Emma Hayes after Hampton joined Chelsea in 2023.
The supportive environment and ambition to secure the starting goalkeeper role at Chelsea and regain her place in the national team were instrumental, White noted.
“Not being selected for England is never ideal. Various factors contributed. She deserves credit for her perseverance and dedication,” White stated.
“She rebuilt relationships and demonstrated her worth through her play. I’m incredibly proud of her and eagerly anticipate seeing her at the Euros.”
Hannah Hampton was confirmed as England’s number one goalkeeper in May
Ward and Hampton maintain close contact. During Ward’s BBC Sport interview, Hampton called to inquire about her daughter’s preferred name for the back of her new England shirt for Euro 2025.
“Her success doesn’t surprise me. I always knew she’d be England’s number one; she’s one of the best I’ve ever seen,” said Ward after learning her daughter wants ‘Hampton’ on her shirt.
Hampton’s confidence has surged this year, playing a pivotal role in Chelsea’s unbeaten domestic treble.
Reflecting on her journey, she stated: “It’s been a whirlwind. As a young girl, did I envision this position? Absolutely not.
“But I’m proud and eager for future challenges. I anticipate a thrilling summer of football.”
Hampton aims to follow in the footsteps of previous England goalkeepers, including Mary Earps, who recently announced her retirement.
Earps is a two-time Fifa Best Goalkeeper award winner, instrumental in England’s Euro 2022 victory and World Cup 2023 final run.
White admits feeling “sad” that Hampton won’t benefit from Earps’ experience, intensifying the pressure on the goalkeeping position.
“Having Earps’ mentorship would have been invaluable,” White commented.
“A strong first game is crucial. Facing France’s potent attack won’t be easy.
“She should focus on the fundamentals and avoid overthinking. Mistakes happen, and it’s how she responds that matters.
“Everyone makes errors; the scrutiny will naturally be heightened.”
However, Hampton exudes composure. She enjoys training with uncapped goalkeepers Khiara Keating and Anna Moorhouse—and is prepared.
“We support each other,” she added. “Whoever plays will give 100% for England.”
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