Rachel Daly reacts to Mary Earps' retirement
(Credit: Getty Images)
Jack Dawson
Wed 4 June 2025 16:34, UK
England Women are aiming to defend their European Championship title this summer as Euro 2025 kicks off next month.
Aston Villa Women will be hoping to see representatives in the Lionesses squad for the tournament.
Villa starlet Missy Bo Kearns made her England debut on Tuesday and has been named on standby for the team.
However, Rachel Daly’s recent retirement from international duty means she will not be in Switzerland next month.
However, the attacker is not alone, with multiple England legends announcing their retirement before the tournament.
aston villa
Rachel Daly retired from England duty in 2024
Fran Kirby retires from England international duty before Euro 2025
Recently, England Women suffered a shock when Mary Earps announced her retirement from international duty.
MORE VILLA STORIES
Now, this has been quickly followed up by Fran Kirby who has now hung up her England boots.
The Brighton star has 77 caps for the Lionesses and netted 19 times. The 31-year-old played an important role in England’s Euros win in 2022.
Now, after it was confirmed that she would not be part of the team in Switzerland next month, the attacking midfielder has chosen to retire from international duty.
Fran Kirby’s England career
Caps 77
Goals 19
Honours European Championship x1, World Cup bronze medal x1
Kirby has had a England career to be proud of
On Instagram (3 June), the 31-year-old put up a post reflecting on her Lionesses’ journey, stating that it has been “the biggest honour of her life”.
As a result, multiple England legends have responded to the post, including Daly and Lucy Bronze.
The Villa forward commented: “What an incredible international career you’ve had, Frank Kirby, absolute legend. You should be so so proud.”
Whereas Chelsea star Bronze put: “Mini….. you know what’s next Legend.”
England face stern test in Switzerland without experienced stars
With yet another experienced player set to not travel to Switzerland this summer, it is no doubt going to be a difficult test for the Lionesses if they are to hold onto their trophy.
Spain are likely to favourites after they beat England in the World Cup final two years ago.
However, with Kirby’s retirement, it may present an opportunity for Kearns to make her way into the squad if there is an injury.
Hopefully, if she is called up, the Villa Park star can prove that she is worth her place in the team.
Related Posts