Chelsea captain Millie Bright has unveil her retirement from international football with England.
The Blues skipper played a crucial role in England’s victory at the Women’s European Championship in 2022, starting in all six matches as the Lionesses triumphed on home soil.
The experienced defender also captained her country during England’s run to the Women’s World Cup final in 2023 in the absence of Leah Williamson.
Bright made her international debut in September 2016, replacing Karen Carney as a last-minute substitute in a 2-0 win over Belgium. Soon becoming an integral part of the England set-up, Bright was selected for Euro 2017 and was the only England player to start every match in that tournament.
The 32-year-old earned 88 caps for her country during a storied international career, scoring six goals.
Reflecting on her England career, Bright said: ‘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. However, in football all good things must come to an end and with that I have decided to retire from international football.
‘For me personally, it’s a decision I have taken to ensure I can commit fully to my club football and give Chelsea everything they need from me. I always want to leave places in a better place than you found it so what better time to step aside and let the next generation of Lionesses come through after what they achieved this summer. I know they will go on to achieve even greater things in the years to come and I’ll be their biggest fan.
‘To all my team-mates, coaches, staff, friends, family and of course the fans, thank you. Your belief and support have meant the world to me and is something I’ll forever cherish.’
