England’s hopes of defending their European Championship title have suffered another major setback, with vice-captain Millie Bright withdrawing from contention for Euro 2025 in Switzerland. The decision comes on the eve of Sarina Wiegman announcing her final 23-player squad for the tournament.

Bright, who has been a stalwart of the Lionesses’ defence, described the decision as “the right thing for my health and my future.” Her teammates are understood to have offered their full support, recognising her need to prioritise both her physical and mental well-being. Nonetheless, her absence is a significant blow to Wiegman, especially following the recent international retirements of goalkeeper Mary Earps and playmaker Fran Kirby.

All three featured in every match during England’s triumphant Euro 2022 campaign, along with Rachel Daly – who stepped away from international duty last year – and centre-forward Ellen White, who retired completely from football after that historic success. As a result, only six players from the starting XI in that final may be involved this time around.

Bright shared her thoughts via Instagram, stating:
"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 tell me to go, but I think the team and the fans deserve more. 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 teammates, stepping back is the right thing for my health, my future, 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 to give everything for the badge and the country."

The 31-year-old, who has earned 88 caps and scored six goals for England, had already missed recent Nations League fixtures against Portugal and Spain to focus on her recovery. Speaking on the Daly Brightness podcast, she revealed that both her body and mind required a period of rest. Despite her absence from the national team, she captained Chelsea to a domestic treble this season.

On Wednesday, Bright, who also wore the armband during England’s run to the 2023 World Cup final, added:
"I’ll be supporting the team with everything I’ve got and hoping this incredible group of players will do the nation proud. Thank you to my teammates, coaches and, most importantly, the fans for your unwavering support – it means the world to me."

There is, however, some encouraging news for Wiegman. Key players Lauren Hemp, Georgia Stanway and Alex Greenwood – all of whom had been recovering from knee injuries – returned to action during England’s recent matches against Portugal and Spain and came through unscathed. Greenwood’s return is particularly timely, as she is expected to slot into the centre-back role vacated by Bright, a position she regularly occupies at Manchester City.

Wiegman also remains optimistic about Chelsea forward Lauren James’s chances of being fit, as she continues to recover from a hamstring issue. James is likely to be included in the squad when it is officially announced on Thursday.

In midfield, Wiegman faces a selection dilemma following Kirby’s departure. Aston Villa’s Missy Bo Kearns – who made her senior debut on Tuesday against Spain – is in contention, as are Laura Blindkilde Brown and Brighton’s Maisie Symonds, the latter having received her first senior call-up in March. However, it is expected that only one from this youthful trio will make the final squad.

England will kick off their Euro 2025 campaign on 5 July against France, before completing their Group D fixtures against the Netherlands and Wales.