Imagine yourself as a highly rated soccer player. Naturally, you would have a massive fan following, with everyone asking for pictures and autographs. But what if one of them suddenly abused you, despite you treating them well? Sadly, this is exactly what one of the Chelsea teammates of Naomi Girma, none other than Millie Bright, faced. No wonder it prompted the Blues skipper to send a stark ‘reminder‘ to the fans!

The incident transpired during Sonia Bompastor and Co.’s victory over Aston Villa, courtsey of an own-goal from Sarah Mayling. It was the away side’s second consecutive narrow win as they prevailed against Arsenal last week in a similar fashion. Surprisingly, during the first half, as both sides were leveled, one of the supporters in the stands of Villa Park shouted “F**king s**t” to Bright.

While addressing this issue on her Instagram stories, the center back admitted that everyone can have their opinion. Millie also claimed she doesn’t ‘care‘ about such comments. But what left her amazed it came from the very same fan who had asked Bright for photos + signatures. That didn’t settle with the English international, who had to make her feelings clear to the fans.

“Please may I remind you that as players we are not collectables, we are not robots, we are humans the same as you. After every game we as players make a choice to give you our time, support + generosity to do photos, signatures, have conversation because we care + respect you travelling to support us,” wrote Bright.

To recall, Chelsea had decided earlier this season that they would prohibit players from signing autographs and taking photos at Kingsmeadow. The 7X WSL champions cited concerns that it was “no longer safe or sustainable” to continue the practice. But given that the team was away, Bright decided to give it a shot which apparently fired back.

Hence, the veteran defender urged fans to remain “mindful” of their comments. She also reminded that players continue to interact with them regardless of the result or performance. “I’m glad it was me you made this comment about and not my teammates. Every game we give our absolute all + it won’t always be pretty or perfect but just remember we give everything to be the best for you, so this experience was hugely disappointing, especially from a fan sat in the Chelsea section.”

Some genuine appeal from the skipper. Of course, hardly anyone would tolerate such behavior and there’s a little players can do. But the fact it comes from their own fans is something that is bound to leave a bad impression. Regardless, the good thing is that Bright is already past it; not to remind you that she seems excited for something special!

Millie Bright is looking forward to playing alongside Naomi Girma

After a narrow win against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, the veteran defender shared her thoughts on her new teammate. Bright expressed her gratitude for the former NWSL star joining the Blues. “We’re really lucky to have her,” she stated in an interview with BBC Sport.

She emphasized that Chelsea’s record transfer not only secures their place in history but also sends a strong message globally. Furthermore, Bright is confident that the new arrival will make a significant impact, adding, “She is going to be a fantastic addition and we can’t wait to get started with her.”

Importantly, Girma’s arrival also appears to have clarified Bright’s future. With her contract set to expire this summer, clubs had been eyeing the $183K-rated defender. However, BBC reporter Emma Sanders has suggested that Chelsea is prepared to offer new contracts to Bright alongside Kadeisha Buchanan and midfielder Erin Cuthbert.

With these prospects and the chance to play alongside Girma, Bright’s future at the club looks secure. But let’s hope it comes with a guarantee that the new arrival won’t face what her new team skipper endured!