Euros

Mooney said continued investment into all levels of the game will form a key part of the FAW’s future plans.

Following reforms of governance and structure in recent years, next year’s strategy is set to focus on “high performance” and “grassroots”.

That will include on increasing recent investments into improving facilities and new funding for the domestic game, including “long overdue” injection in the men’s Cymru Premier and financial boost for the women’s Adran Premier “to capitalise on momentum”.

Mooney accepts there will be a need to boost revenues to keep up with the investment plans, pointing to better relationships with partners, new sponsorship deals on the back of international success and plans to utilise the association’s cash reserves.

“We don’t budget to qualify for tournaments, but we have Euro 2028 coming here and we know that we highly likely to play in it with the qualifying is set up, so it would be foolish not to plan on that basis,” said Mooney.

“We have to battle complacency by investing wisely in the sport and the results will mean a bigger game in Wales.

“We’ve had good days, but there are much better days to come if we deliver on this new plan next summer.”

In replacing Emma Hayes at Chelsea last summer, Sonia Bompastor perhaps faced the toughest task in women’s football.

But you wouldn’t have guessed this after a season in which the Blues won the WSL, FA Cup and League Cup, and lost in the Women’s Champions League semi-finals to Barcelona.

Despite only being under the guidance of the Frenchwoman for a year, Bright has built a relationship with Bompastor similar to what she had with Hayes, who left the Blues to take charge of the United States women’s national team.

“To be able to experience that and have that relationship with two separate managers is really special,” added Bright.

“To still feel you have that open-door policy, I could go to her for anything, and she has been amazing throughout the summer as well.

“I know if I needed her, I could go to her. You feel really lucky to have that.”

Bright said it was “really refreshing” to return to Chelsea training and is now raring to go for the new campaign.

“I was eager to get back on the pitch and finally be pain free with my knee and it not blow up after every session and I am actually able to walk down stairs after a tough day,” she added.

“I don’t feel like I ever lost the buzz, but I was so drained that I was so ready for a break. But now I am so ready for the first game and get back out there.”

Having won the last six WSL titles and claimed the two cup competitions last season, Chelsea are the dominant force in women’s football.

Before their season opener at Stamford Bridge against Manchester City on Friday, 5 September, Bright said her side will not rest on their laurels, especially having missed out on a coveted first Champions League.

“You can’t stand still,” she added. “You have to look at every factor of the game, what we do and the Chelsea model.

“We achieved a lot, but we didn’t achieve one thing that we really want. We want to do it all again. We don’t just want that, we want everything. We want to be even better.

“Every other team has grown and is getting even stronger and every team is going to want to win like us.

“It’s scary that we are going to another level, but that is the exciting part.”

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, information and support can be found at the BBC’s Action Line.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline

England beat Sweden on penalties in the Euro 2025 quarterfinal before going on to beat Spain in the final.

England defender Jess Carter said she felt a sigh of relief when her non-Black teammates missed penalties during their shootout win over Sweden in the Women’s Euro 2025 quarterfinals, fearing Lauren James would suffer “astronomical” racist abuse if the forward had been the only player to miss her spot-kick.

England overcame a two-goal deficit to force penalties in Zurich, eventually triumphing 3-2 in a dramatic shootout that featured 14 attempts.

Sweden goalkeeper Jennifer Falk saved four England penalties, including James’ second effort. Beth Mead, Alex Greenwood and Grace Clinton, who are all white, also missed their spot-kicks for England.

“It’s horrible to say but it’s almost like a sigh of relief when other players that weren’t Black missed a penalty, because the racism that would have come with LJ (James) being the only one that missed would have been astronomical,” Carter told United Kingdom broadcaster ITN on Monday.

“It’s not because we want them to fail – it’s about knowing how it’s going to be for us (England’s Black players) if we miss.”

Carter said in July that she had been the target of online racist abuse since Euro 2025 began in Switzerland and announced that she is stepping away from social media for the duration of the tournament.

“It makes you feel really small. It makes you feel like you’re not important, that you’re not valuable,” the 27-year-old said about the effect the abuse had on her.

“It makes you second-guess everything that you do – it’s not a nice place to be. It doesn’t make me feel confident going back on to the pitch. My family was so devastated by it as well and so sad.”

England, who traditionally take a knee before matches as a gesture against racism, opted not to do so before their semifinal against Italy, following Carter’s revelations about the abuse she faced.

She also admitted to feeling fear when England manager Sarina Wiegman informed her she would be playing in the final against Spain, which England won 3-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

“That’s the first time I’ve ever been scared – too scared to play,” Carter said.

“I think it was a mixture of such a big game, but then on top of that (I was) scared of whatever abuse might come with it, whether it’s football-based or whether it was going to be the racial abuse that was going to come with it because I did something wrong.”

GOALIE Hannah Hampton was England’s penalties hero with two saves as the Lionesses roared to Euros glory over Spain last night.

Hannah starred in the 3-1 shootout win after the sides drew 1-1 in Basel, Switzerland.

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The King hailed their historic victory, three years after winning Euro 2022. He said: “The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027 if you possibly can!”

They are the first senior England football team to win a major tournament on foreign soil and the first to retain a trophy after victory in 2022.

It was striker Chloe Kelly who sealed the win — repeating her feat from Wembley three years ago when she took off her jersey in celebration.

She brought it home this time by scoring the crucial penalty, sparking scenes of joy in Basel, Switzerland.

Manager Sarina Wiegman — winning her third consecutive Euros after victory in 2017 with the Netherlands — ran on to the pitch punching the air as she joined the mass of players and staff mobbing Kelly.

The Arsenal ace was in tears as she joined thousands of delighted fans singing Sweet Caroline.

Moments later, Kelly said: “I am so proud of this team. So grateful to wear this badge. So proud to be English. I was cool, I was composed.

“I knew I was going to hit the back of the net. Unbelievable. All the staff and Sarina Wiegman — she has done it again! Unbelievable.

“It is going to be crazy. I hope the whole of England comes out to support us and shows their love to these girls as they deserve it.”

Supersub Michelle Agyemang, the breakout star of the tournament, sank to her knees and wept as Kelly’s penalty went in.

In the stands, Prince William and daughter Princess Charlotte roared with delight at the victory.

Just before kick-off, a snap of the pair was posted on the Prince and Princess of Wales’s X account with the caption: “Let’s go, Lionesses.”

Jubilant Wills later greeted them, giving skipper Leah Williamson a hug, before they were presented the Euro 2025 trophy on the pitch.

King Charles told the Lionesses: “You have my whole family’s warmest appreciation and admiration. The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027, if you possibly can!”

The team will be at a Downing Street reception today hosted by Deputy PM Angela Rayner and sports minister Stephanie Peacock.

Ms Rayner said: “Our Lionesses are absolute champions. Not only are they bringing it home for England again, but they’re inspiring the next generation of champions too.”

PM Keir Starmer added: “The Lionesses have once again captured the hearts of the nation.

“Their victory is not only a remarkable sporting achievement, but an inspiration for young people across the country.”

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Former England striker and footie pundit Gary Lineker wrote online: “They’ve done it again. She’s done it again. Kelly’s heroes. Fabulous.”

Dutchwoman Wiegman said after the win: “I can’t believe it! We said we can win by any means and that’s what we have shown again today.

“I am so proud of the team and the staff. It is incredible.”

Spain were favourites on the back of an impressive run of ten straight victories in all competitions, scoring 38 goals in the process.

But England, despite a shaky start to the tournament, were confident after seeing off Sweden in the quarters and Italy in the semi-final.

A crowd of 34,203 watched as England enjoyed a bright start, with the first chance after three minutes.

But as the match wore on, Spain began to dominate and England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was forced into several crucial saves.

Mariona Caldentey put Spain ahead on 25 minutes, with Alessia Russo heading England level on 57 minutes.

Then, with neither side making a breakthrough in extra time, the match went to a penalty shootout.

Hero Hampton saved twice before Kelly’s trademark hop, skip and run penalty went in to secure the victory.

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Despite playing girl’s football for years, watching England vs Italy in the Euros semi final was my first ever women’s game, and it was not what I expected

I played football way before it was even a professional sport for women in the UK, and yet shamefully had never been to watch a single game of women’s football.

So, when Geneva Tourism presented the opportunity to go to Geneva and watch the Lionesses play in the Euro’s semi-final, it was a no-brainer.

It’s rare you get to watch a football game set against the backdrop of the French mountains, whilst standing in Switzerland, but that was the beauty of seeing the lionesses play at Stade de Genève. A beautiful stadium for the beautiful game.

Seemingly now football fans, including myself, are realising the Lionesses have so much to offer to lovers of the sport and the team are certainly giving them plenty to celebrate.

I went into the stadium with an open mind, a buzz in the air, and an excitement to get to know how it feels to support a team that has a high chance of walking away with a win.

I must admit, I didn’t expect there to be as much atmosphere from the spectators in the crowd as there was but as stands packed out with fans of all genders, flags hung high, drums banging, and trumpets blaring there was a different kind of ambience.

This crowd was far less rowdy, less cruel to the opposition—seemingly less drunk too—but by no means did they lack that very same passion that drives any English football club.

When it came to the game itself, the standout thing I couldn’t help but notice, and albeit could just be down to the intensity of this semi-final, is these players love to get handsy. The women on the pitch couldn’t help but foul left, right, and centre, and that goes for both sides.

I’ve never seen so many near yellow cards, hands being grabbed and players being shoved, sneaky pulls on shirts, and cheeky tripping over than I have in any other game of football.

It proved these Lionesses have just as much, if not more grit, aggression, and daring streak than the male players I’ve been watching my entire life. Although it did have me cringing anytime a corner was taken – hoping and praying that we wouldn’t foul inside the box.

For years, as a fan of football, I did feel a sense of awkwardness within me, in both the pubs and at the games, feeling I couldn’t fully involve myself in the chaos.

It almost felt as though this was a game that belonged to the men and I was just merrily passing through. I didn’t feel welcome to join in with the celebrations and the cheering because often, I didn’t feel safe to.

But standing there in Geneva watching the Lionesses, it really did feel like it was everyone’s game and one that I could be a part of. I hugged the woman I just met when we watched a fresh-on-the-pitch 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang score that first goal.

We collectively drank wine (yes, outside in the stands, can you believe it) and talked game play with fellow fans and it felt like a place where my version of football belonged.

While I won’t be there to see the Lionesses take on Spain in the Euros final, I will be standing firmly in a pub, wine in hand, cheering along.

There’s no doubt I will also be guilty of screaming ‘REF’ at the TV even when it’s clear we did in fact foul, because let’s face it, there was a lot of that happening.

England defender Jess Carter says she will take a step back from social media after experiencing “a lot of racial abuse” during Euro 2025.

In a statement on Sunday, the Lionesses also said they would now stop the anti-racism move of taking a knee before matches, saying it was “clear we and football need to find another way to tackle racism”.

“From the start of the tournament I have experienced a lot of racial abuse,” said the 27-year-old Carter.

“While I feel every fan is entitled to their opinion on performance and result I don’t agree or think it’s OK to target someone’s appearance or race.

“As a result of this I will be taking a step back from social media and leaving it to a team to deal with.”

The Football Association said it was “working with police to ensure those responsible for this hate crime are brought to justice”.

LEE CARSLEY knew nothing about a potential role in new movie Saipan — but he is desperate to write his own Hollywood script in Slovakia.

The England Under-21s boss was part of the Republic of Ireland’s 2002 World Cup squad that witnessed the huge row between boss Mick McCarthy and captain Roy Keane.

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In fact, it was Carsley and Jason McAteer that had to face the media the day after the explosive incident, which led to Keane walking out on the team.

A trailer for the movie, starring Steve Coogan as McCarthy, has set tongues wagging.

Unfortunately for Carsley, despite Oliver Coopersmith being cast to play McAteer, producers felt there was no place for the Young Lions chief.

But the 51-year-old is more concerned about leading England to a second-straight Euro crown, with a semi-final against the Netherlands tonight.

Carsley said: “Holland are a team that we’ve been watching now for a while.

“They’re very attacking, very expansive in the way they play.

“Technically very good. I really like the system that they play as well.

“We’ve spoken about making sure the Spain game can’t be the highlight of our tournament.

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“So the players are really determined.

“We’ve had a good couple of days training. We’re looking forward to the game now.”

After Carsley’s side slapped Spain 3-1 in the quarter-finals on Saturday, he is now hoping they produce another masterclass to sink the Dutch.

He said: “Ideally and I’ve spoken to the players about it, you want to coach a team where you watching them play and you’re enjoying watching them. That Spain game and the second half of the Germany game, you are on the side, enjoying watching the players play and expressing themselves.

“You want foreign journalists to speak about our players the way we sometimes speak about their players, in terms of their technical ability or the way they can take the ball.

“We’re definitely changing that perception of English players.”

Holland coach Michael Reiziger has been impressed by the Young Lions.

His side beat Portugal 1-0 last time out despite Ruben van Bommel’s 21st- minute red card.

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Reiziger said: “They’re not playing in a typical English style.

“They are playing really well with a lot of good quality and they are growing into the tournament. 

“It will be a tough game but that is logical.

“We’ve watched every match of England.

“Two strong teams that love to play football, two teams that have quality.

“It is going to be an interesting game. We have some comparison with England.

“We started not that well but are getting better every time, resulting in the fact we won a game with ten men.”

After over two decades of misery in penalty shootouts, Sir Gareth Southgate helped instil a no fear factor into England players, with the seniors winning three of their last four.

And Carsley insists his lads are ready for penalties if it comes down to it tonight. He said: “There’s more of an awareness of penalties and the technique and structure that goes behind a shoot-out.

“We are fortunate to have a lot of players who take penalties for their clubs.

“It is very difficult to replicate the walk from the halfway line to the penalty spot, especially if you are not used to it.

“It’s something Gareth pushed which filtered down the pathway.

“It is so important because of the amount of resources thrown at the senior team to be the best at shootouts.

“That awareness of how important they are has definitely trickled down and we have benefited from that.”

England’s Under-21 Euros squad in FULL

ENGLAND are looking to retain their status as Under-21 European champions this summer in Slovakia.

Here is Lee Carsley’s full squad for the blockbuster tournament:

Goalkeepers: James Beadle (Brighton and Hove Albion), Teddy Sharman-Lowe (Chelsea), Tommy Simkin (Stoke City)

Defenders: Charlie Cresswell (FC Toulouse), Ronnie Edwards (Southampton), CJ Egan-Riley (Burnley), Tino Livramento (Newcastle United), Brooke Norton Cuffy (Genoa), Jarell Quansah (Liverpool)

Midfielders: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Archie Gray (Tottenham Hotspur), Hayden Hackney (Middlesbrough), Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton and Hove Albion), Tyler Morton (Liverpool), Alex Scott (AFC Bournemouth)

Forwards: Harvey Elliott (Liverpool), Omari Hutchinson (Ipswich Town), Sam Iling Jnr (Aston Villa), James McAtee (Manchester City), Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal), Jonathan Rowe (Marseille), Jay Stansfield (Birmingham City)

BRITS jetting off to Europe for their summer holidays could risk losing cash if they pick the wrong time to buy the currency.

When heading abroad, it is not uncommon for many holiday-goers to exchange cash into the currency of the country they are travelling to.

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But when you convert cash from one currency to another, you could end up getting more money in exchange or in some instances less.

Factors such as inflation and the economic stability of a country can impact how much a currency is worth.

Currently, the Great British Pound (GBP) is worth more than the Euro, a popular holiday destination for many Brits.

So for example, if you had £100 and exchanged it you would get €116 in return.

While UK holiday goers currently get more money back when they swap their cash for Euros, returns have been better in previous years.

Back in 2024, £1 was worth €1.18.

Tony Redondo, founder of Cosomos Currency Exchange told The Sun that factors such as “soft UK economic data” and “rising geo-political tensions” is pushing the Pound to Euro exchange rate lower.

Inflation fell to 3.4% in the 12 months to May, raising expectations the Bank of England could cut interest rates tomorrow, June 19.

This can lower the value of the Pound as investors seek to get higher returns elsewhere.

With this in mind, Tony said that holiday goers heading to Europe before the end of the month, should buy Euros “soon”.

He said: “It might be best to buy soon to protect from any further possible downside.”

But the money expert said that those not travelling until the end of school holidays have no need to panic.

He said: “A calculated gamble would be to wait it out as the world moves at such a pace nowadays, that hopefully, the Pound has time to recover.  

“After all, in 17 out of the last 20 years, the Pound has gone up in value against the Euro in either July or August. “

It is worth noting that exchange rates can go up and down, so it is worth checking online currency converters to see how much you can get.

MORE HOLIDAY MONEY HACKS

When heading abroad there are a few hacks to ensure you don’t end up losing money.

Customers should avoid exchanging money at the airport as they tend to have higher fees due as they cater to a captive market.

Kara Gammell, personal finance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: “If you have a holiday booked and want to make the most of current rates.

“Don’t wait to buy your travel money at the airport as you will pay a premium – and never pay for your currency with a credit card as paying on plastic means you’ll be charged a ‘cash advance fee’.

This fee is charged on ATM withdrawals but also on transactions such as online gambling and buying foreign currency.

You should also be aware that banks tend to charge customers a fee for using their debit or credit card abroad.

For example, NatWest charges customers a 2.75% fee for spending your debit card abroad.

That would add a £1.16 charge to the cost of a jacket which cost £42.16.

But some banks don’t charge you for spending abroad.

For example, Monzo does not charge its customers foreign transaction fees nor does First Direct.

England forward Alessia Russo says she prefers to stay off social media during major tournaments because of how “damaging” abuse can be.

The 26-year-old was speaking about the issue alongside her Lionesses teammates as they prepare for their European Championship defence in Switzerland next month.

Their comments come after British women’s tennis number one Katie Boulter spoke to BBC Sport about abuse and death threats she has received online,

Manchester United midfielder Grace Clinton 22, says she will try and stay away from social media to avoid a “toxic environment” while Chelsea forward Lauren James said “the abuse never really stops”.

“I think every player might have a different story about that side of the game but it’s definitely one that can be really damaging,” said Arsenal forward Russo, 26.

“I have faced it in the past and I think most players here have. When I was younger I probably got sucked into it more.

“I read it more than I should have and listened to it more than I should have. The only opinions that matter are my team-mates, my coaches and my family.

“In my first Euros I was on social media and I would have a look, have a scroll, and I got caught in a trap sometimes.

“Going into the World Cup, I completely came off everything and I had people to run my Instagram. I just focused on the tournament.

“It’s personal preference and whatever works for the team. Staying away from it and staying focused as a team is what works for me.”

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast, James discussed abuse she received, saying: “Sometimes it’s not even to do with my performance, even when someone loses at Fifa [EA Sports FC video game], my card scores against them and they’re sending me abuse.

“I guess when it’s your first time though, maybe it might touch someone but I’m used to it, I’m going to just brush it off my shoulder.”

Chelsea midfielder Kiera Walsh told 5 Live she no longer uses social media, while club teammate Lucy Bronze added: “People write horrible things and obviously our families read it as well and it can be upsetting if you see something that’s not very nice.

“Social media is amazing in one way and absolutely awful in another way. I think most of us have been off at some point.”

Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone said that while she will still uses Instagram during the tournament, she will respect the decision of any team-mate who decides to keep off social media while in Switzerland.

“I know other people turn their phones off. We have that conversation and all know how each other wants to go through the tournament,” she said.

“If I see something on Instagram I’m not going to tell someone or blurt it out to the team because they don’t want to see it. I think it’s a personal preference.”

Having experienced online abuse as a young player, both her and Russo want to help younger players in the squad deal with it.

“I think from experiences me and Alessia have had in the past, we’ve always been the people that want to make sure the younger or less experienced players coming into the squad feel relaxed and feel OK,” Toone added.

“We have such a talented squad. We have bags of talent coming into their first tournament so we want to make sure they are at ease and feel confident within themselves.”

JUST 18 months ago she was flashing her diamond engagement ring on a sun-soaked holiday in Mauritius, toasting a future with the man she called her ‘King’.

But today Lioness Millie Bright is sporting a very different ring on her finger, with her life having seemingly been upended in the space of a week.

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It began with her shock withdrawal from the Euro 2025 squad due to not being able to “give 100 per cent mentally or physically” – a decision she admitted was “one of the hardest I’ve ever had to make”.

Physically, defender Millie is recovering from knee surgery which saw her miss a date with Prince William yesterday to collect her OBE from Windsor Castle.

On a personal level, this week it emerged she’s split from husband-to-be Levi Crew and fallen for married personal trainer and dad-of-seven, Dave Zetolofsky, 39.

She’s also been spotted with a new diamond ring on her little finger – though there’s no suggestion it’s an engagement ring. 

Meanwhile all mentions of Levi have been swiftly deleted from Chelsea captain Millie’s social media accounts, including that Christmas Day engagement post.

But people who know Millie, 31, are not remotely surprised by this single-minded determination to do what’s right for her. 

“Millie is not the type of woman to be troubled by self doubt or regret,” said a source, adding that she makes tough decisions, and sticks to them.

An onlooker said: “Millie’s had a chaotic few weeks with news of her split and pulling out of the England squad. But she’s as tough in real life as she is on the pitch.”

It’s arguably this ruthless, resilient mentality that has got Millie so far in life – going from earning £25 a week in a Yorkshire pit village to a historic victory in the 2022 Euros, leading the women’s national team to the 2023 World Cup final, winning 19 trophies with Chelsea and living in a Surrey mansion worthy of glossy magazine spreads.

Up until recently she shared this immaculate home with Levi, whom she was so devoted to that she proudly displayed a tattoo of his eye on her left arm, along with a tiger because “he gave her core strength through thick and thin”.

She raved about her “perfect kitchen” after it was fitted by high end designers Howdens to include a bespoke pet space under the breakfast bar for her beloved French bulldogs Zeus and Hera, named after Greek gods.

And the garden boasts an Explore ice bath which she uses for her post game ritual.

Millie is thought to have met heavily inked former pro kickboxer and martial arts enthusiast Dave in February.

She joined 21st Century Combat, the gym he co-owns with his wife Katie close to her Surrey mansion, and signed up to his gruelling exercise classes.

There is no suggestion that Millie or Dave cheated on their partners.

Eyes on the prize

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From an early age, Millie always had her eyes firmly fixed on the prize. 

Growing up among the Derbyshire collieries, little Millie’s childhood was quite idyllic. 

She first sat on a horse when she was one, and was riding by the age of three – insisting that horses were her “life rather than a hobby”.

Determined and dedicated, Millie would rise early and be out working in her family’s stable yard by 6am most mornings before school, rain or shine.

She competed every weekend, and the owl Millie has tattooed on her arm is a likeness of the one that flew back to her parents barn every year. 

But suddenly, at the age of nine, she decided to sacrifice it all after stumbling across football by accident.

Millie’s had a chaotic few weeks with news of her split and pulling out of the England squad. But she’s as tough in real life as she is on the pitch

Source

Bored while watching a friend train one morning at her local club, Killamarsh Dynamos, she decided to join in the session.

That was the moment everything changed, and from then on Millie’s life revolved around the Dynamos. 

Millie was such a key player that the club would later name their pitches after her.

Inevitably she outgrew the Dynamos and a few years later – dressed as one of the mustachioed runners from the 118 118 directory enquiries service for a charity run – she seized the opportunity to introduce herself to Paul Green, then manager of Doncaster Belles. 

He recalled that her handshake was so strong that day it took him aback.

Unable to refuse her, her contract was quickly a done deal.

‘Diamond in the rough’

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Another former Doncaster manager, John Buckley, remembers Millie as a diamond in the rough.

“From the minute she came in she was totally involved, a cracking girl,” he said.

Back then women’s football was not the big business it is today, and her wages were just £25 a week. 

Undeterred, Millie juggled two part time jobs – working as a fitness instructor and a horse groom at Esberger’s Yard in Todwick – to supplement her meagre income. 

In 2019 she recalled in an interview with the BBC how an ankle injury at that time not only robbed her of her earnings from football, but left her claiming benefits because she could not work her two other jobs either. 

From the minute she came in she was totally involved, a cracking girl

John BuckleyDoncaster manager

Ever supportive, her parents Nicola and Steve forked out for private surgery and the club paid for her rehabilitation.

“She was always so driven and eventually, she knew what she wanted to do – which was to play professional football,” said Sheila Edmunds, the president of the Doncaster Rovers Belles.

A family friend added: “It was always blood, sweat and tears with Millie, she would play until her entire body hurt.”

As her football career grew more demanding in her teens, Millie was forced to make another tough choice.

She had to abandon the stables for good – and now Millie is barred from horse riding at all by her insurers.

After that of course Millie soared to greater heights and spells in midfield meant she was a direct opponent of England legend Jill Scott, then at Everton. 

In one press conference Scott said: “The girl I played against tonight, that young girl – she’s the most aggressive player I’ve ever played against.” 

Millie’s mum and dad were in the stands at every game, along with her no-nonsense grandparents Margaret and Arthur.

Arthur Bramall, a tough former coal miner who spent his career at the Rossington colliery in Doncaster, is the person Millie relies on the most for honest feedback about her performance on the pitch.

Bitter blow

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Her decision to withdraw from the Euro 2025 squad as they began preparations for the tournament in Switzerland next month was a bitter blow for fans.

Millie admitted: “The demands of it are incredibly high and I would see it as a little bit selfish to take up an opportunity in a position from somebody else when I’m not 100 per cent there.

“It wasn’t an easy decision. I gave it a lot of thought. 

“But ultimately, I thought this was the best decision for the team, but also for myself and using this summer to really just zone into mentally, physically, getting myself back in tip-top condition and just happy again, all round, just feeling like myself. It’s obviously hard.”

Fans have rallied to support Millie on social media, as have her teammates, with Arsenal striker Chloe Kelly writing: “Proud of you always”.

Aston Villa‘s Rachel Daly posted: “Couldn’t be more proud. With you through everything my girl,” and a message on the official Lionesses account read: “We’re all with you, Millie.”

England manager Sarina Wiegman said: “She has to take care of herself. We will stay in contact and I hope she feels better soon.”

While she’ll no doubt find it difficult watching her team play on without her, Millie’s new love certainly provides a big shoulder to cry on.

THE Under 21 Euros kick-off today – bringing a whole host of new stars.

England are the holders and some of their winners from two years ago are now in the senior squad.

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The likes of Anthony Gordon, Cole Palmer and James Trafford have been with Thomas Tuchel‘s party over the last week.

Premier League clubs will surely be interested ahead of the proper transfer window opening on June 16.

So, here is SunSport’s five to watch – although one of the names will be familiar…

NICK WOLTEMADE (Germany)

Stuttgart’s 6ft 6in striker is anything but a target man and arrives full of confidence after making his senior bow against Portugal last week.

The £34million-rated star’s 17 goals this season have alerted a host of Prem clubs, including Everton.

Woltemade, 23, could now earn himself a big-money move by firing the Germans to Euro glory.

CONRAD HARDER (Denmark)

Sporting Lisbon brought the hotshot, 20, to Portugal for  £16m last summer and now value him at nearly FOUR TIMES that amount.

Harder had seven goals and 16 assists this term — with Chelsea, Manchester United and Juventus all watching him closely.

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YEREMAY HERNANDEZ (Spain)

Deportivo winger was playing third-division football in Spain a year ago — but now has a host of top clubs eyeing him.

The 22-year-old led them to promotion with 15 goals and five assists.

His electric pace and dribbling make him one to watch.

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JORREL HATO (Holland)

Despite being just  19, the classy defender has been named Ajax vice-captain.

Even though the Dutch giants suffered title agony, Hato was named the Eredivisie Talent of the Year.

Arsenal and Liverpool are among clubs eyeing the teen star.

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ETHAN NWANERI (England)

Arsenal’s attacking sensation, 18, aims to announce himself on the international stage this month.

Nwaneri produced 11 goal contributions for Mikel Arteta’s men in a breakout campaign.

Equally happy out wide or centrally, Nwaneri is arguably the Young Lions’ biggest threat.

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Liam Delap has not been selected in England’s Under-21 squad for this month’s European Championship.

The 22-year-old has just completed a £30m move from Ipswich to Chelsea and is now expected to travel to the United States with his new club for the Club World Cup.

Sunderland’s Jobe Bellingham is in the squad, despite interest in the midfielder from German side Borussia Dortmund, who will also take part in the Club World Cup which runs from 14 June to 13 July.

The U21 Euros will take place across eight host cities in Slovakia from 11-28 June.

More to follow.

SARINA WIEGMAN rejected suggestions of England being in crisis after naming her squad for this year’s Euros.

The Lioness chief backed her group to ignore outside noise following player retirements and a surprise withdrawal.

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Wiegman was speaking yesterday, a day after England vice captain Millie Bright, 31, announced her decision to withdraw from being selected for the contest. 

This follows goalkeeper Mary Earps, 32, and playmaker Fran Kirby, 31, both calling time on their Lioness careers three years after helping the team become Euros champions.

On the Daly Brightness podcast yesterday, Bright opened up on the reasons behind her choice and including wanting to get back to her very best physically and mentally.

The 88-capped centre-back, and Chelsea captain, played an influential role in her club treble trophy win this season  with the Blues going unbeaten in 22 top-flight games

Bright’s withdrawal and Kirby’s and Earps’ retirements before the July 2 start of the Euros in Switzerland, prompted questions on whether all is well behind the scenes with England. 

When asked if England are in crisis, Wiegman said: “For me, it doesn’t feel like a crisis at all.

“That is not the case. We know what is happening in the team and there is competition going on in the team. 

“My experience (as England head coach) is that there is always noise. 

“We expect noise until we go into the tournament. 

“The difference between the 2015 (World Cup) and 2017 (Euros) to now is that the visibility of the women’s game has increased so it seems like there is more noise. 

“What we say all the time is that the level of the game has increased so much so the demands on the players have increased a lot. 

“The demands in the WSL and also internationally and also with the Nations League. 

The level and demands have increased there too. 

Then the attention around – the players are household names now – that is lifechanging. 

When asked about Bright’s withdrawal Wiegman revealed she was saddened by it.

And she hopes the Lioness heroine will be back to her best soon.

The Englad boss added: “It was sad and disappointing.

“It’s not nice when you don’t feel well physically and mentally and I just hope she feels better soon.

“Players are not robots. We try to support them as well as possible. Hopefully many players stay fit and healthy.

“They (Bright, Earps and Kirby) have done so much for us and for English football. 

“They have been playing in the tournaments since I have been here so that’s hard to replace. 

“But there are also other players who have done really well.

“They get the opportunities now to step up and show [what they can do].”

Wiegman’s squad selection involved the head coach looking to the future with seven players appearing in their first major tournament.  

Six of whom are aged from 19 to 23. 

Among them is Arsenal’s Michelle Agyemang whose call-up followed her stunning international debut goal during England’s 3-2 Nations League loss to Belgium in April 

Her cameo performance after coming on in the 80th minute of that game is her only senior England appearance to date.  

And Wiegman backed the striker to add a new dimension to England’s attack 

The Lioness chief said:  “We will see what she can bring. 

“I have seen her in training sessions and what she did in Belgium – she can bring something different. I hope she can show that.”

England took the unexpected route of revealing their Lionesses Euros squad via a video 

Three Lions stars Harry Kane and Bukayo were among the celebs naming selected players. 

Among the players who made the cut is Chelsea’s Lauren James with the forward battling to be fit in time for the tournament.  

On July 5 England will begin their fight to remain Euros champions with a Group D clash with France. 

Wiegman said: “I hope Lauren will be available for the first game of the tournament. 

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“I don’t know for how many minutes yet, we need to see that. 

“We still have one friendly against Jamaica, I hope that she’ll make that one too.”

England’s squad includes six Arsenal stars with Leah Williamson, Lotte Wubben-Moy and forwards Beth Mead, Alessia Russo and Chloe Kelly all selected. 

With Earps retiring there were also call-ups for goalkeepers Anna Moorhouse and Khiara Keating as back-up options to England’s new No1 Hannah Hampton.

Wilkinson said assessment of Rhiannon Roberts is also “ongoing”, with the 79-cap defender suffering a fitness issue on the eve of the 1-0 loss in Odense that confirmed the side’s relegation from the top tier of the Nations League.

But the Wales boss said neither were being ruled out at this stage, with the squad for the Euros being named on 19 June.

However, Wilkinson did say Ingle is “on track” to be part of that selection after the “milestone” of training with team-mates in a session before the game with Italy.

“It was great to see her back,” said Wilkinson of the 141-cap former captain, who is also continuing rehabilitation at Chelsea despite announcing her departure from the Women’s Super League (WSL) champions following the end of the season.

“Any injury is a lonely place to be… and one of the big gains is not just being back on the field with the ball, but being back with team-mates.

“She’s done it with her club and now she’s done it with her international team-mates.

“That milestone is such a boost and you could see it in her, it was a big moment.”

But with Wales’ match with Italy their final fixture before they open their Euro 2025 campaign against Switzerland – and Ingle having not played a competitive match for so long – Wilkinson said she would remain cautious.

“She’s in a great space and she doesn’t feel like she’s overextending herself, because when players in stressful situations try to rush back from major injuries that’s when you can see reoccurrence,” Wilkinson said.

Wilkinson added that Ingle will be part of a training camp in Portugal in the tournament build-up,

“That’s why we want to do it properly. It’s very obvious we want her with us in Switzerland, everything is tracking that way, but she will not be rushed or pushed,” said Wilkinson.

“The most important thing is being able to play, not 90 minutes, but can she contribute?

“She’s aware there will be conversations coming up to the tournament and she’s doing everything she needs to, to be coming to Switzerland with us.”

Fellow defender Lois Joel added: “Sophie’s such a core part of our group, so well respected, so it’s great to have her back in whatever capacity.

“It was great to see her smiling and kicking a ball – and she barely looks rusty.”