Millie Bright’s imposing physicality can make her a difficult proposition for opposing strikers to come up against, but it’s her range of passing that has really caught the eye in recent years. Having been described as an “ideal model” of a defender by former England goalkeeper Rachel Brown-Finnis, the 28-year-old will be hoping these attributes will help England to Euros glory at the home tournament this year.
Steph Houghton’s omission prior to the tournament grabbed plenty of headlines. But the Chelsea defender is continuing to quietly go about her business.
She has seamlessly transitioned to a new defensive partnership with Alex Greenwood, saying: “In training she’s solid, makes blocks and puts her body on the line. Sometimes people might not think she’s that way inclined but she’s very front-footed; it’s a pleasure to play alongside her.”
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Early career
Millie Bright’s sporting prowess was evident from an early age, but it was in equestrian events that she shone originally, with her family owning a stable of horses in South Yorkshire. She didn’t receive professional coaching until quite late in her career - unusually for a pro - but stepped up when she joined Sheffield United age 16 before eventually spending a stint with Doncaster Rovers Belles.
Bright made 32 appearances for Doncaster before earning a move to Chelsea in 2015, which would prove a launching board for her senior international career. For insurance reasons, the centre back can no longer pursue her love of horse riding but has said she wants to get back in the saddle when she hangs up her boots.
Chelsea and England appearances
Bright hit the ground running at Chelsea, winning the Women’s Super League and finishing the season as the Player’s Player of the Year. The central defender got her first senior England call-up on the back of her superb club form in 2016, but wouldn’t go on to establish herself as a regular starter at the back until two years later.
She starred alongside Steph Houghton as England reached the semi-final of the Women’s World Cup in 2019, with their partnership being one of the key strengths of Phil Neville’s England side. However, it would seem that Bright is enjoying life under new coach Sarina Wiegman, saying: “Sarina has a thing where the player on the ball is the one who makes the decision.
"You’re in control. That’s one thing I’ve really loved about her coming in.”
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