Millie Bright undergoes surgery! Defender goes under the knife after rejecting England call-up for Euro 2025 amid burnout claims

Bright confirmed on Wednesday that she won’t be part of the Lionesses squad for Euro 2025, saying she’s “not able to give 100 per cent mentally or physically” at the moment. The 31-year-old Chelsea skipper is the latest high-profile player to step away from the national team for the tournament in Switzerland, following the unexpected international retirements of Mary Earps and Fran Kirby.

Chelsea have now confirmed that Bright underwent surgery on Thursday afternoon on a minor knee issue. The Lionesses' star should likely be available for Sarina Wiegman's first official squad come next season; however, she will be greatly missed next month in Switzerland.

On Instagram, Bright posted a story from the hospital bed, which showed off her left knee in a brace. She captioned the story: Successful [operation]. Road to recovery begins!"

Instagram (@mbrighty04)

No real timeline has been provided regarding Bright's return, however, it is likely that her recovery should be completed before the start of the 2025/26 season as Chelsea look to win the Women's Super League title for the seventh straight season.