'We are not collectables' – Lionesses star Millie Bright calls out Chelsea fan who labelled her 'f*cking sh*t' after making selfie & autograph request at Aston Villa

The Lionesses defender has become a hugely important presence for club and country over the course of her distinguished career. She is a European Championship winner with seven WSL titles and four FA Cup triumphs to her name.

The 31-year-old is, however, not immune to criticism from the stands. She found that out again during Chelsea’s clash with Aston Villa. Bright was asked for a photo and autograph during that trip to the West Midlands, only to then come in for abuse from the person who made the request.

Bright has said in a passionate message on Instagram, with questionable treatment of professional athletes being called out: “Yesterday I experienced hearing a fans comment that I was ‘f*cking sh*t’ in the first half. Now everyone can have their opinion, what was said I don’t actually care about but it was more the fact that this came after they’d asked for photos + signatures.

“Please may I remind you that as players we are not collectables, we are not robots, we are humans the same as you. After every game we as players make a choice to give you our time, support + generosity to do photos, signatures, have conversation because we care + respect you travelling to support us.

“We do this regardless of the result or performance, so please be more mindful of your comments. I'm glad it was me you made this comment about and not my teammates. Every game we give our absolute all + it won’t always be pretty or perfect but just remember we give everything to be the best for you, so this experience was hugely disappointing especially from a fan sat in the Chelsea section.”

Chelsea won the game in question 1-0, courtesy of an 82nd-minute own goal from Sarah Mayling. Bright helped the Blues to keep a clean sheet, with another victory extending their unbeaten run in the 2024-25 campaign while keeping them seven points clear at the top of the WSL table.