ENGLAND defender Millie Bright has made herself unavailable for Euro 2025.
The 31-year-old withdrew from the squad prior to last week’s Nations League clash with Portugal due to burnout.
She recently opened up about being physically and mentally fatigued after leading Chelsea to a domestic treble.
And the defender feels that she will not be ready for the European Championship next month.
In an emotional statement published on her social media, Bright wrote: “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.
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“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 team-mates, 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.
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“Thank you to my team-mates, coaches, and, most importantly, the fans for your unwavering support, it means the world to me.”
Bright’s withdrawal comes just one day after England icon Fran Kirby announced her retirement from international football.
The midfielder published a statement on social media just hours after being left out of the England squad for Tuesday’s Nations League match against Spain.
She wrote: “After being in the England team since I was 21, it’s time to close that chapter of my life. I didn’t ever want this day to come, but I cannot tell you how proud I am it happened.”
Kirby also revealed that she had initially planned to retire after Euro 2025 but instead called it quits this week after being told by Sarina Wiegman that she would not be in the 23-player squad.
The Lionesses will also be without Mary Earps for the upcoming international tournament.
The goalkeeper announced her international retirement last week.
Earps, who was named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2023 after winning the World Cup Golden Glove, was expected to battle Hannah Hampton for the No1 spot in Switzerland.
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But her decision to retire just weeks before Euro 2025 left Wiegman “disappointed” after what is said to have been an awkward meeting.
The Lionesses kick off their Euro 2025 campaign on July 5 against France.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
