As Sarina Wiegman prepared to announce her first England squad since the Lionesses triumphed at the European Championship back in July, one of the biggest questions surrounded Millie Bright. After missing that triumph, citing physical and mental fatigue as she withdrew from selection, would the Chelsea captain be available again? Three months on, we have our answer.
Were it up to Wiegman, Bright would've been there in Switzerland, bringing to the table her exceptional leadership, which saw her captain the Lionesses to the 2023 Women's World Cup final, and her wonderful on-pitch quality, which marked her out as one of Chelsea's best performers during their treble-winning 2024-25 season. But after a demanding campaign, Bright's decision was understandable.
As is her latest one, announced the day before Wiegman's latest squad reveal. On Monday, Bright called time on her England career in a move that, while not hurting the Lionesses too much, is incredibly good news for Chelsea and their quest for that elusive Women's Champions League title.