Millie Bright has made 88 appearances for England With Sarina Wiegman naming her Euro 2025 squad at 14:00 BST on Thursday, two senior international retirements and the withdrawal of her World Cup captain is not exactly ideal. It has been a chaotic and unsettling 10 days for the Lionesses, with distractions off the pitch dominating the end of their Women's Nations League campaign, which was brought to a close withdefeat by Spain. Goalkeeper Mary Earps stunned supporters when she stepped away from international duty, informing players four days before England's win over Portugal. Fran Kirby followed suit a week later, announcing her decision within an hour of England's defeat by world champions Spain late on Tuesday. And, with several players still on a flight home when the news dropped on Wednesday, Millie Bright revealed she was withdrawing from selection because of "personal reasons" - having taken an "extended period of recovery" this week. It has led to some questioning over what is happening within the squad, and what repercussions there will be - with England attempting to defend their Euros crown. They have been drawn in a tough group at the tournament, which starts on 2 July, facing the Netherlands, France, who are ranked 10th and 11th in the world, and neighbours Wales. Only two from the group will advance to the quarter-finals. The squad were rocked when Earps, following conversations with manager Wiegman, decided to step down from international duty with her position as England's number two all but confirmed. She had fallen down the pecking order since her heroics at Euro 2022 and the 2023 Women's World Cup and, with Chelsea's Hannah Hampton having started three successive matches, her role in Switzerland was expected to be a different one. That played a large part in Earps' sudden decision, which clearly disappointed Wiegman - who described it as a "hard" week for the Lionesses. Meanwhile, Bright had already withdrawn from the squad to focus on her wellbeing, but Wiegman hoped she would feel well enough to rejoin the group for the Euros. Players reached out to Bright while at St George's Park in the build-up to their 6-0 win over Portugal last Friday, but Wiegman's doubts were clear as she admitted she "did not know" whether the Chelsea captain would return in time. Kirby's retirement rubbed salt into England's wounds after an eye-opening defeat by Spain - who are seen as strong favourites for the Euros title next month. Her decision was understandable, given she had had "honest conversations" with Wiegman throughout the past few weeks and was told she was not set to make the squad. With retirement in the summer already in mind Kirby accelerated her decision, but the timing only fuelled the chaos that existed during England's preparations. Bright selflessly confirmed 12 hours later that she was "unable to give 100% mentally or physically", and that was the final blow in a damaging week for England. She had started every game as England won the Euros in 2022, and again as she captained the Lionesses to the World Cup final in 2023. When fit, she is one of the first names on Wiegman's teamsheet and would have been a shoo-in for the squad. Each situation has come about in different circumstances but, combined, it makes for a grim picture. Kirby's choice felt like the right one after the 31-year-old's efforts to move from the fringes into the final 23-player Euros squad ultimately did not pay off. She had struggled with injury since starting every game at Euro 2022, missing the World Cup after knee surgery and withdrawing from recent squads with minor issues - her place in the squad was up for debate and Wiegman made her call. Wiegman spoke highly of Kirby in the moments after she had informed her team-mates in the dressing room in Barcelona. She had been left out of the squad for the 2-1 defeat by Spain and Wiegman addressed media, saying she was "proud" of Kirby's career and calling her an "inspiration". Both Kirby and Wiegman said they had "honest conversations" and had communicated frequently in recent weeks. It ended on good terms, with full transparency. There was also sympathy from Wiegman regarding Bright's wellbeing, with the Dutchwoman saying last week the priority was "to take care of herself". "She has to take the time that will help her settle. We'll stay in contact and I hope she feels better soon. We have people around who can give that support," Wiegman added. Captain Leah Williamson said Bright's decision to speak out about her mental health was a "brave thing to do". "I think it encourages other people to do the same," said Williamson. "She's leading by example. Anything that she needs from the team, we will be there to give it to her." There were mixed views when Earps' retirement was announced two weeks ago - some among the media and fanbase calling it a "selfish" decision. She was still a valuable member of Wiegman's squad - the manager said so herself - and she wanted Earps to be in Switzerland, using her experience to aid Hampton. Wiegman admitted she was"really disappointed and sad",and that the news had come as a "shock" to the players. She was hesitant to discuss details around the timing of Earps' decision but it was clear Wiegman was emotional, stating: "I find it hard". This video can not be played 'Sad' Wiegman & 'devastated' Williamson on Earps' retirement Wiegman became the first coach to win the Euros with two different teams, and this summer will aim to become only the second to win three consecutive European Championships. She can only select 23 players and there are always difficult choices. She omitted former captain Steph Houghton from the squad in 2022, with the armband going to Williamson - who had played just seven minutes at a major tournament. Houghton later said she was disappointed by the lack of communication from Wiegman, but those close to the Dutchwoman say she is ruthless in her decision-making. Wiegman can be sharp and straight to the point, efficient with her time, and always insistent on decisions that are best for the squad - not based on sentiment. That ruthlessness is nothing new - Wiegman dropped Netherlands captain Mandy van den Berg after the first two group games at Euro 2017. Ultimately, she went on to win both tournaments, proving her worth as one of the world's leading coaches. "When she first took the job I was looking into her thinking 'who is this, I want to know what her squad profile is'," former England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley told 5 Live. "I looked at what she had done with the Netherlands and she culled loads of 30-year-olds. I thought I had no chance. "I was out injured and I remember having a phone call with her and she was like 'where are you at?' I told her I was still injured. She said: 'I'm going to give you six weeks to let me know if you're going to be fit enough or not'. "I thought that was quite an ultimatum. I tried to get back fit and I couldn't, so I had to call her and say I'm not going to make it. I'm going to have to retire. "With the intensity she wants to play at, the game does catch up with you and it gets to a point where it moves beyond you." Wiegman said on Tuesday she is "close" to knowing her final squad for Euro 2025, but insists there is still time to work out her starting XI. A major dilemma is whether to gamble on the fitness of Lauren James. The Chelsea forward was not involved in the recent Lionesses camp because of a hamstring injury suffered in April, and she has not featured for club or country since. But Wiegman said she was "pretty positive" about James' Euros chances, saying numerous times this week that she is on track and "ticking the boxes". "LJ is special. She can produce something that is quite extraordinary, that can spin a game on its head," said ex-striker White. "Do you take a risk on someone that is talented, that could potentially come on for 10 or 15 minutes and do something completely special? It is a real headache for Sarina." Another outsider is 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang, who scored a stunning goal just 41 seconds into her senior debut in April. Bardsley believes the Brighton forward is worth a punt. "When I saw her play for the under-23s I thought she was on another level. "She is an incredible talent. I don't want to hype her up too much because she is young. "She has put in her application and hopefully Sarina accepts, because I'd love to see her in Switzerland." Players face a nervous wait before Thursday's announcement and Bronze admitted there were "a lot of big decisions" for Wiegman to make. "You can only pick 23 players. We have more than 23 players that deserve to be at the Euros based on talent, on effort and on experience," she added. Head here to get involved
How a chaotic 10 days unfolded for Lionesses as Euros loom
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Lionesses Face Turbulent Preparations Ahead of Euro 2025"
Bbc News
6.9
TruthLens AI Summary
In the lead-up to the Euro 2025 tournament, the Lionesses have experienced a tumultuous ten days marked by significant player retirements and withdrawals, casting uncertainty over their preparations. Millie Bright, a key player with 88 appearances for England, announced her withdrawal from the squad due to personal reasons, having recently taken an extended period of recovery. This news followed the unexpected retirements of goalkeeper Mary Earps and midfielder Fran Kirby, who both stepped down from international duty amid their struggles with fitness and form. Earps' decision to retire just days before England's match against Portugal shocked both fans and teammates, given her importance to the squad during previous tournaments. Kirby's retirement came after a series of honest discussions with head coach Sarina Wiegman, who revealed that she had communicated that Kirby would not make the final squad for the Euros, prompting Kirby to prioritize her well-being. These developments have raised questions about the state of the squad as they prepare to defend their title, particularly with a challenging group stage ahead that includes matches against formidable opponents like the Netherlands and France.
Wiegman's management style has been scrutinized in light of these events, as she is known for making tough decisions that prioritize the team's performance over sentimentality. The absence of key players like Bright and Earps, who were instrumental in England's past successes, adds to the pressure as the coach works to finalize her squad. Bright's focus on her mental health has been acknowledged by teammates and Wiegman alike, with captain Leah Williamson commending her bravery in speaking out. Meanwhile, Wiegman faces the challenge of selecting a balanced team from a larger pool of talented players, including the promising 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang, who made an impressive debut earlier this year. With the tournament set to commence on July 2, the Lionesses are in a precarious position, navigating the chaos of recent events while aiming to reclaim their European crown amidst rising expectations and scrutiny from fans and media alike.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The recent turmoil within the England women's football team, known as the Lionesses, has sparked significant attention in the lead-up to the Euro 2025 tournament. The events described in the article highlight a series of player withdrawals and retirements that have created an atmosphere of uncertainty for the squad.
Impact of Player Retirements and Withdrawals
The article details the recent retirements of key players, including Mary Earps and Fran Kirby, alongside Millie Bright's withdrawal for personal reasons. These developments suggest a potential crisis within the team, raising questions about player morale and the internal dynamics of the squad. Such high-profile exits just before a major tournament can indicate deeper issues, possibly related to team cohesion, player satisfaction with coaching decisions, or individual mental health challenges.
Perception and Community Reaction
The narrative surrounding these withdrawals is likely intended to evoke concern among fans and analysts about the Lionesses' chances at the upcoming Euros. By framing the situation as chaotic and unsettling, the article may be aiming to generate a sense of urgency and interest in how the team will adapt to these changes. This portrayal may also reflect broader societal conversations about the pressures athletes face, especially in women's sports, where visibility and expectations are rapidly increasing.
Potential Omissions and Hidden Agendas
While the article focuses on the immediate impacts of the player withdrawals, it does not delve into potential underlying issues within the footballing structure or the support systems available for players. By not addressing these aspects, the article may inadvertently obscure a more complex narrative about the challenges faced by female athletes. This selective focus could lead readers to form opinions based solely on the surface-level drama rather than understanding the systemic issues at play.
Manipulative Elements and Trustworthiness
The report's framing and choice of language might carry a manipulative undertone, as it emphasizes chaos and uncertainty while potentially diverting attention from the broader context of women's football. However, the factual basis of the events described lends credibility to the report. The reliability of the information hinges on the accuracy of the reported events and player statements, which appear to be grounded in reality.
Connections to Broader Themes
In comparison to other coverage of women's sports, this article fits into a narrative that often highlights drama and conflict. Such portrayals can contribute to a sensationalized view of women's football, which may overshadow the sport's growth and achievements. The ongoing discussions about women's visibility in sports and the treatment of female athletes influence how this news is received and interpreted by various audiences.
Societal and Economic Implications
The potential impact of this news on society includes increased scrutiny on the mental health of athletes and the need for robust support mechanisms within sports organizations. Economically, the visibility of the Lionesses, particularly with an upcoming tournament, could influence sponsorships and investments in women's sports, contingent on the team's performance and public perception.
Audience Engagement
This article is likely to resonate more with audiences invested in women's sports, particularly fans of the Lionesses and advocates for gender equality in athletics. It seeks to engage those who are concerned about the implications of player well-being and team dynamics in a highly competitive environment.
Market Reactions
While the news may not have immediate implications for stock markets or global economies, it could influence sponsorship deals and investments in women's football leagues, depending on the public's response to the Lionesses' performance at the Euros.
Geopolitical Context
Although the article primarily focuses on sports, the broader themes of gender equality and representation in athletics relate to ongoing global discussions about women's rights and visibility in various sectors.
AI Involvement
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence played a role in the writing of this article. However, AI tools could influence the way narratives are constructed, potentially emphasizing certain angles over others based on audience engagement metrics.
In summary, while the article presents a factual account of recent events affecting the Lionesses, it also raises questions about the narratives being constructed around women's sports and the implications of player dynamics on public perception. The portrayal of chaos may serve to heighten interest but could also distract from the more significant issues facing female athletes today.