Millie Bright, England's captain at the 2023 Women's World Cup, decided to step back from the successful European Championship campaign due to mental and physical health concerns. Along with her, Mary Earps retired from international football, and Fran Kirby was excluded from the final squad. Despite being eligible to play, Bright prioritized the opportunity for a fully fit player. Her season with Chelsea was demanding, leading her to undergo surgery. Bright expressed pride in her teammates' achievements and has no regrets about her decision.
It was really difficult, but it was very clear to me I knew what I needed to do. I made the decision to get surgery, which I needed.
Mentally I just wasn't there either, and it would have been selfish to take the spot of a player who could have been 100 percent physically and mentally.
I was so proud watching the girls at the tournament, I was rooting for them the whole way, and not at one point did I think I should have attempted to play.
Bright is now raring to play football again, ahead of Chelsea's WSL opener on September 5, but hasn't made any decisions yet on whether she'll be available for England's next matches.
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