Millie Bright announces decision to withdraw from EURO 2025 selection | OneFootball

Millie Bright has announced she has withdrawn from selection for the England squad for EURO 2025.

The Chelsea captain becomes the third player to make themselves unavailable to Sarina Wiegman’s squad selection after the retirement of Fran Kirby on Tuesday night and Mary Earps last week. The European Championships runs between 2-27 July in Switzerland.

The 31-year-old withdrew from the Lionesses’ Nations League squad this month, with the Football Association saying the centre-back was taking “an extended period of recovery”.

Bright later confirmed burnout to be the reason behind her decision, after the defender made 36 appearances in all competitions as Chelsea claimed the domestic treble under Sonia Bompastor.

In a statement on Instagram, Bright said: “This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, but after careful thought and discussions with my team, I have decided to withdraw from selection for the England squad ahead of Euro 2025.

“Football has given me so much, and representing my country has always been my greatest honour. My pride and ego tells me to go but I think the team and the fans deserve more. Right now I’m not able to give 100% mentally or physically.

“As much as I want to be out there running through brick walls for England and fighting alongside my teammates, stepping back is the right thing for my health, my future in the game and most importantly the team.

“It wouldn’t be fair for me to take the place and opportunity away from another player who is ready and able to give everything for the badge and country.

“I’ll be supporting the team with everything I’ve got, and hoping this incredible group of players will do the nation proud. Thank you to my teammates, coaches, and, most importantly, the fans for your unwavering support, it means the world to me.”

Bright was captain for the Lionesses when they were beaten by Spain in the 2023 World Cup final, and has been capped 88 times for her country.

She was a regular in the 2022 Euros squad, as she helped England win the tournament for the first time after defeating Germany in the final as the host nation.