Millie Bright Optimism for Euro 2025 Qualifiers

Millie Bright, the England defender expresses her enthusiasm for the strength of the Lionesses squad, noting that the new additions are elevating their game. After a five-month injury hiatus, Sarina Wiegman includes the 30-year-old in her 24-player squad for Euro 2025 qualifiers. England will host France at St James’ Park on May 31st and then head to Saint-Etienne on June 4th for the Group 3 return leg. Afterward, Wiegman will maintain the same squad for the match against the Republic of Ireland in Norwich on July 12th, followed by a trip to Sweden on July 16th.

With stiff competition for spots, Millie Bright emphasizes that no one’s position is guaranteed. She highlights the importance of competitiveness in every position to drive performance and improve the team. Bright values continuous improvement, noting football’s evolution; the squad thrives on training and the impact of new players. Bright specifically lauds her Chelsea teammate Aggie Beever-Jones, who earned her first senior Lionesses call-up.

Beever-Jones, a 20-year-old forward replaces Rachel Daly, who retired from international football in April. Bright praises Beever-Jones’s exceptional attitude, mentality and development as a player, especially after successful loan spells. Additionally, Beever-Jones’s impressive performance for Chelsea in the Women’s Super League, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists, underscores her value to the squad.

Bright believes Beever-Jones will excel in the England setup, highlighting her speed, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess. She describes Beever-Jones as a positive, committed and bubbly character who embraces challenges and enjoys the learning process. Additionally, Bright emphasizes the importance of Beever-Jones’s presence and character especially after Daly’s departure.

Looking ahead to Euro 2025 qualifying, Bright recognizes the significance of upcoming matches against group leaders France. She sees defeating France as crucial, sending a clear message to their competitors and making a strong statement. Bright emphasizes the need for preparation and determination to secure victories and deliver strong performances in these challenging fixtures.