Fran Kirby retires from England career – why timing is right for midfielder to stop

Kirby is a generational talent who has played a major role in the growth of women’s football in England, as well as the success of the national team.

She became the first player from the WSL 2 to be called up to England’s senior squad in 2014 and impressed at the World Cup a year later, earning the nickname “mini Messi” from former boss Mark Sampson.

Playing as both an attacking midfielder and a wide forward, Kirby has entertained with trickery, creativity and unpredictability ever since.

Her experience shone through in 2022 as she started all six games during England’s success, complementing the youthful talent breaking through.

“I love working with her. Her touch, her positioning, her vision, her game-understanding and her connections,” said Wiegman.

“She has had an incredible career and it is still going on in the Women’s Super League. I am really proud of her and grateful I got to work with her.”

Kirby’s ability to turn a game on its head and produce a moment of magic is what led to her “mini Messi” nickname.

Former England manager Phil Neville said after a friendly win over Brazil in 2018, that he would “take my number 10 over Brazil’s” when comparing Kirby’s impact on the game to six-time World Player of the Year Marta’s.

And while she has been on the fringes of the England squad in recent times, she could always be relied upon to do the job being asked of her.

“I remember 10 years ago she got the nickname and rightly so, because she just lit up the stage in an England shirt,” said defender Lucy Bronze.

“I think all the players who now play for England probably dreamed of playing with Fran Kirby one day. She was that good.”