Legendary Lioness Millie Bright retires from England

England defender Millie Bright has announced she is retiring from international football.

This means she will still play with her club Chelsea but will not play for England or take part in international tournaments.

Millie was part of the England team when they won the European Championship in 2022 and also captained them to the World Cup finals a year later.

Speaking on a podcast she said: "It's the right time for me to call it a day with England."

Millie Bright's first time playing for England was in September 2016.

She went on to make 88 appearances, called caps, for England.

Millie was an important part of the team which won Euro 2022 and, as captain, she lead the Lionesses to the World Cup final a year later, which they lost to Spain.

When England defended their Euros title in Switzerland in July, Millie made herself unavailable for selection as she felt she was unable to give "100% mentally or physically".

Millie Bright scored six times for England across 88 international appearances

"I'm incredibly proud and honoured to have played for England for so long." Millie said.

"Every single cap has been special and the memories I've made... have been some of the best of my life.

"But yeah, it's time. It's the right time for me to call it a day with England."

England manager Sarina Wiegman said: "Millie will forever be an England legend for what she has given to her country, and I could never have enough words to praise her impact during my time."

In a statement released by her club Chelsea, Millie said the decision will allow her to commit fully to the club.

She added it was the right time to step aside and let the next generation of Lionesses take over.

"To all my team-mates, coaches, staff, friends, family and of course the fans, thank you. Your belief and support have meant the world to me and is something I'll forever cherish," she said.