World Cup captain’s withdrawal is an important wake-up call, and leaves serious questions for coach Sarina Wiegman
Millie Bright’s decision to withdraw from selection for the European Championship this summer, partly to look after her mental health, is one of the most courageous acts an England player has made and might yet prove to have just as powerful an impact off the pitch as her performances have had on it.
Going to a major tournament for your country is every player’s dream and therefore for Bright, who captained England in the 2023 World Cup final, to bravely risk criticism and sacrifice that opportunity because she has the self-awareness to know that – in her words – “the fans deserve more” than what she can offer is sad for the Lionesses, but it should also serve two higher purposes.
Written by Tom Garry
This news first appeared on https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/jun/04/bright-has-made-a-brave-decision-but-are-england-doing-enough-to-support-their-stars under the title “Bright has made a brave decision, but are England doing enough to support their stars? | Tom Garry”. Bolchha Nepal is not responsible or affiliated towards the opinion expressed in this news article.
