Katie Chapman questions FA's stance on motherhood

Katie Chapman with her family

England international Katie Chapman has expressed her disappointment on the Football Association’s stance on motherhood.

The Arsenal midfielder claimed that she was dropped by the FA when she asked a little time off to look after her family. Chapman, who moved to play in United States in 2010, returned home recently with her family after her husband failed to find work.

Chapman revealed that her central contract was immediately cancelled when she asked for a short leave.

“It was really upsetting, the time I needed time out, I didn’t feel much supported. I had a 10-minute conversation with [former boss Hope Powell] and then three hours later, I got an email to say my central contract had been finished,” she said.

“I don’t know if it was because I was a mum, but I needed that time for my children. In America, on international duty they have nannies. They take their children with them and have nannies on site so when they’re training it’s all looked after,” she added.

Chapman is one of the most decorated figures in the women’s game and has received 82 caps for England after making her debut at the age of seventeen.

FA responded to Chapman’s claim by ensuring that it will support its players during pregnancy period.

“The FA will fully support any England women’s player should they wish to take maternity leave or spend time concentrating on their family life,” a FA statement said.

“We have a maternity policy in place for players on an FA central contract and all contracts remain in force during the period of any player’s pregnancy/maternity leave. This policy was approved by the Professional Footballers’ Association,” the statement added.