"Fran Kirby emphasizes the lasting impact of playing in significant tournaments: 'I've never stopped appreciating the thrill of competing on the grand stage.'"
The Recent Retirement of Fran Kirby: A Shift in the Lionesses' Lineup
In a surprising turn of events, Fran Kirby, the 31-year-old English soccer superstar, declared her international retirement on Tuesday. The decision comes after she was left out of the Lionesses squad for the Euros this summer, a tournament she initially intended to conclude her international career.
Kirby, who donned the English jersey for the first time in 2014, and went on to win the Euros in 2022, played her last game for the Lionesses against Portugal last Friday at Wembley, sealing a total of 77 caps.
Kirby's Heartfelt Reflections
Despite the setback, Kirby remained upbeat, expressing her love for major tournaments and the unparalleled thrill they bring.
Speaking to our website, she shared, "Major tournaments are the main reason why you play football. It's the moments of being able to play in a major tournament and I am really lucky as I have played in a few now."
England, aiming to defend their European crown in Switzerland, have been drawn in a challenging group. They will face Wales, the Netherlands, and France. Kirby, speaking before her retirement announcement, acknowledged the additional pressure of being the title holders for the first time.
However, she remained optimistic about the new blood in the team, suggesting that their hunger for success could be a game-changer.
The Power of Collective Hunger
In a significant comment, Kirby highlighted the importance of team hunger in achieving success, stating, "I think it is hunger from everyone in the team... Everyone knows if we win, we all win."
This sentiment underscores that the collective drive and commitment of the entire squad, not just the starting players, play a crucial role in propelling a team towards success in major tournaments.
Stay tuned for updates on England's Euro 2024 campaign and the keys to a successful defense of their European title.
Despite her retirement from the national team, Kirby's passion for football remains undiminished, as she expressed a keen interest in watching the Champions League, a prestigious competition in European leagues. Moreover, she stated that it's the excitement and competition in major tournaments like the Champions League that drives her love for the game.
