Emma Hayes Reveals England Start Millie Bright is Still Struggling Due to Pre-World Cup Injury

Chelsea captain Millie Bright may miss her team’s Women’s Champions League match against Paris FC due to a knee injury, according to Emma Hayes. This season, the defender has made seven appearances for Chelsea in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and Champions League.

However, Blues coach Hayes admits Bright’s knee injury before the World Cup earlier this year is still a worry, as she must control her workload after undergoing surgery. Bright has been nominated to England’s team for the upcoming matches against the Netherlands and Scotland.

Hayes, however, said that there is a “strong probability” that the 30-year-old will be forced to leave the camp. She told reporters ahead of Thursday’s European clash: “Millie’s 50/50 for tomorrow. Having so many games in quick succession, we’re managing her loading. She’s very much in doubt for tomorrow. Preparation going into the World Cup 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. We’re going to take decisions on a day-by-day basis.”

In the Champions League, Chelsea will host Paris FC at Stamford Bridge. After drawing their first game of the competition, the London team is second in their group. On Sunday, the reigning WSL champions will meet Leicester in the league.