England defender Millie Bright announces international retirement with immediate effect

Central defender Millie Bright has called time on her England career, retiring from international football with immediate effect.

The Chelsea captain made her announcement on Monday (13 October) during the 'Rest is Football: Daly Brightness' podcast.

Since debuting for the Lionesses in 2016, the 32-year-old went on to make 88 appearances across nine years.

Her contributions to the national team include the memorable European Championship success in 2022, which was England’s first major trophy, before leading them as captain to a World Cup final in 2023.

Bright has also retires an Olympian, representing Team Great Britain at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, held in 2021.

The defensive stalwart withdrew from contention for the Euro 2025 tournament earlier this year, which Sarina Wiegman’s side successfully defended, citing a physical and mental toll.

Going forward, she plans to commit wholeheartedly to Chelsea for the remainder of her professional career.

“The reality of the last decades 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 as reported by englandfootball.com, reflecting on her time with the Lionesses.

“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 an environment and team in a better place than I found it, so what better time to step aside and let the next generation of Lionesses come through.

“I know they will go on to achieve even greater things in the years to come and I’ll be their biggest fan.”

It is the third notable England retirement in the last year, with Fran Kirby and Mary Earps also hanging up their boots.

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