Big blow for the Lionesses! England captain Millie Bright ruled out of key UEFA Nations League clashes against Netherlands and Scotland through injury with Man Utd star Millie Turner replacing her in squad

Bright has missed Chelsea's last two games against Liverpool and Paris FC, raising doubt over her involvement in the upcoming international break. Manager Emma Hayes had hinted that the centre-back could sit out of England duty next week and that news has now been confirmed, with Manchester United's Millie Turner called up to replace the Lionesses captain.

A statement from the England camp read: "Millie Turner has been called up by England for the two UEFA Women’s Nations League fixtures against the Netherlands and Scotland. The Manchester United defender will report with the rest of the Lionesses squad at St. George's Park on Monday 27 November after previously being included in senior squads.

"Turner has been capped at WU19s and WU23s level. Turner replaces Millie Bright who has withdrawn and will remain at Chelsea for treatment on a knee injury. The 23-player squad will face the Netherlands at Wembley Stadium on Friday 1 December before the Nations League group stage concludes with a trip to Scotland on Tuesday 5 December."

Hayes recently revealed that Bright was still suffering with the knee injury that nearly ruled her out of the Women's World Cup. "Preparation going into the [tournament] wasn't ideal. She probably rushed herself back and she's also come back after the World Cup and quickly into the Chelsea season. Perhaps she needed a little bit longer. Her knee is a little bit angry at the minute. It is not anything too detrimental. We're just listening to her body," the soon-to-be USWNT boss said.

It remains to be seen who will replace Bright at the heart of the England defence alongside Alex Greenwood. Man Utd's Maya Le Tissier and Arsenal star Lotte Wubben-Moy are both options, while Chelsea team-mate Jess Carter has filled in for her at club level in recent times. Manchester City's Esme Morgan is also in the squad.

Following a shock away defeat to Belgium last time out, progression to the Nations League final - and thus Great Britain's qualification for the Olympic football tournament - is out of England's hands.