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England defender Millie Bright retires from international football

Millie Bright made 88 appearances for the Lionesses
Millie Bright made 88 appearances for the LionessesDan Istitene / GETTY IMAGES EUROPE / Getty Images via AFP

England defender Millie Bright announced her retirement from international football on Monday.

Bright won 88 caps for England after making her debut in 2016 and played a key role in their Women's European Championship triumph in 2022.

She also captained England to a World Cup final defeat against Spain the following year.

The 32-year-old revealed her decision to retire from international stage on her podcast "Daly Brightness", which she co-hosts with former England team-mate Rachel Daly.

"The reality of the last decade wearing the Three Lions has surpassed even my wildest dreams," the Chelsea defender said.

"It's been beyond special for me and I wish it could last forever. However, in football all good things must come to an end and with that I have decided to retire from international football."

Bright opted out of England's successful European Championship title defence in July because she was unable to "give 100 percent mentally or physically".

The Chelsea captain had knee surgery and started counselling sessions in the close-season after saying the decision to withdraw from Sarina Wiegman's squad was "by far the best decision I have ever made".