Bright retires from international football

Millie Bright has announced her retirement from international football, drawing a close to an iconic nine-year career with the England team.

The 32-year-old made the announcement on her podcast, citing the mental and physical toll of an elite playing schedule and a renewed desire to focus solely on her club commitments with Chelsea.

The decision comes following a period of reflection after Bright withdrew from the squad for the recent European Championship, an experience that helped solidify her priorities.

On her podcast, Daly Brightness, co-hosted with former teammate Rachel Daly, Bright spoke candidly about the timing.

“It sounds cliché, but it really is a feeling, and when you’re at peace with that decision, having the summer to reflect, get my head straight, fix my knee, really put things into perspective,” she explained.

“As you get older your priorities change. I’ve been craving family time, time with friends, time for myself.”

Bright earned 88 caps for her country, becoming an integral part of the side that transformed English women’s football.

Her peak came in 2022, where she was an ever-present force in defence as England secured their historic UEFA Women’s Euros victory on home soil. A year later, she was handed the armband in the absence of the injured Leah Williamson, leading the Lionesses through a remarkable run to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final.

“The reality of the last decade wearing the Three Lions has surpassed even my wildest dreams. It’s been beyond special for me and I wish it could last forever,” she said.