Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor has confirmed that England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton will be absent from Chelsea’s upcoming UEFA Women’s Champions League match due to injury in her quadriceps.
Bompastor revealed at a press conference that Hampton sustained the injury during Chelsea’s Women’s Super League clash with Arsenal. As a result, Livia Peng, the 23-year-old Swiss international, is set to start in goal in Hampton’s place.
This injury comes at a delicate moment for Hampton — outgoing criticism from her former England teammate Mary Earps has put the spotlight back on her. Earps had publicly questioned Hampton’s role and selection, leading to a broader debate about respect and professionalism within the squad.
Bompastor, however, strongly defended Hampton. She stated that since arriving at Chelsea, Hampton has grown tremendously both on and off the pitch. “She’s such a professional … demanding on the pitch, but someone you can trust when you talk to her,” Bompastor said.
Meanwhile, on Lauren James — another key Chelsea player — Bompastor confirmed that she is nearing a return. James, who has been out through injury, has traveled with the squad for the upcoming Champions League fixture. Bompastor emphasized the importance of managing her load and hinted at squad rotation given the tight schedule.
Chelsea are gearing up to face St. Pölten in their next UWCL game. Without their first-choice goalkeeper, the Blues will need to rely on depth and resilience to deliver on the European stage — especially with high-profile names like Hampton and James unavailable or in recovery.
