We Are Chelsea - The OGs with Milly Bright and Becky Spencer

Episode Date: November 26, 2025

This is We Are Chelsea, the official podcast of Chelsea Women, brought to you in association with Škoda, the official car partner of Chelsea Women and proud supporters of women's sport. www.skoda.co.uk Em Wallbank is joined by OGs Millie Bright and Becky Spencer to share embarrassing stories, hilarious memories and a few pearls of wisdom. What was Chelsea like when they first joined? Who would they cast to play themselves in a movie? Who’s their most impressive teammate? And nobody holds back in a savage game of Whistleblower, where the players help solve YOUR dilemmas. To watch the full episode on YouTube, click here: https://www.youtube.com/@chelseafcwomen/videosSend us your questions and Whistleblower dilemmas to [e-mail] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to We Are Chelsea, the official podcast of Chelsea Women, brought to you in association with Skoda, the official car partner for Chelsea women and proud supporters of women's sport. I'm on Warbank and today we're joined by two Chelsea players who bring experience, leadership and plenty of personality to the squad. Our captain, Millie Bright and goalkeeper Becky Spencer. We'll be looking back at the start of their journeys at Chelsea, chatting about life at the club now and having some fun along the way. This is We Are Chelsea with Millie Bright and Becky Spencer. Thank you so much for coming. Obviously, you've been training this morning. I feel like you've not really stopped since preseason.

How are you both doing? It's been a long, a whole year for us. We've been in the whole summer as well. So, yeah, we had, me and obviously, Bex's in the summer, doing rehab. And then straight to preseason. And then, yeah, the games just start coming thick and fast. I think from now until the end of the season, it's like, go, go, go, going. Yeah.

And I think this period especially is, like, one of the hardest ones. It's just, like, back-to-back games. And you kind of just forget what day of the week. is yeah i don't even know everyone's like oh it's friday i'm like is it it's probably a day that ends in a why who knows what's the general vibe of the team like at the minute yeah i mean i think it's good yeah it's good um and i think because we're together like so so much throughout the week and you know all the away games and stuff i think it's like you know you've got a good culture and a good vibe within the group and i think um yeah it's just nice it's like a family away from your your own family

so yeah it's really good at the moment right Yeah, there's been loads of fresh faces to the team this year as well. What's that been like helping them settling? They're settling like they've always been here. I think all of our signings have come straight in and yeah, just I think really good people, like really bubbly, good characters. But it's one of those things where you come to a club like Chelsea and the expectation so high, it's like you're straight in at the deep end

that you need to perform right now, like straight to it. So it's almost like a good little icebreaker almost because there's no time to dwell, there's no time to, to faff around you straight in but yeah everyone settled and brought something different which is nice oh that's really good you guys have obviously known each other a long time

do you remember the first time that you properly met I don't know the first time we actually met what story are you going to tell this is going to be like when Harry met Sally the Chelsea edition well the question is do you want a football memory or do you want a non football memory I know what it's straight away do you want the winter wonderland

We want the winter wonderland. I can't actually remember the first time, though. I think the first time would have been when you were at Birmingham. Yeah. Obviously, we've obviously played against each other. So we've always known each other. And, yeah. I was delighted when you came, though.

I was used to think, I don't, I'm glad I'm not an outfield player because I wouldn't want to go and a tackle with me. I was going to go, stay away from her. It's not worth it. She'll have you. But, no, on a serious note, though, it's like, it's been nice to, be on Millie's journey as well, like obviously knowing Millie for so long and just seeing her growth and, you know, she's our leader and she's the captain and yeah, just seeing how

she's changed and, you know, not just as a footballer but as a person and there's just so much growth within her and it's been nice to be on that journey. Like sometimes it's been from afar, but we've always spoken, you know, here and there and we're always there. And I know if I ever need anything, then, you know, I can just rely on Mills to be there for me. It's funny because in training when we're on the same time, like the OGs are back together. We're doing it for the OGs, let's go. There's a little running joke. What did it feel like when you heard Becky was coming back to Chelsea?

I was delighted, I couldn't wait. It was more for the off-pitched one. No, listen, she's an incredible person and player and I think bringing that experience, especially within our keeper unit at the minute. I think it's, you know, we've got two young keepers and I think they can learn a huge amount from Bex, but it goes back to the human side of things.

I always look at the people before the player and I always look at people for what they bring off the pitch and your characteristics, being a good teammate and yeah, Bex ticks every single box in that and she's the life and soul of us she really is definitely on the dance floor. You guys are so cute, I love it.

Have you got a favourite memory of or with each other? Do we do with us? There was a really visceral response to that. Do we go for it? I'm an open book. To some degree. So we went to Winterland. It was a team social, right?

And... Should we say how many years ago it was it? Yeah, I mean, when was it? What year was it? Because it was years ago. We don't do this type of thing now. I mean, we probably would. We might do a remake.

We might do a remake. It was quite a few years ago, let's just say that. Yeah. I must have been like early 20s or so that. So we're in the tube station and obviously the escalator is there. Millie's obviously gone down the escalator. Like she's gone, you know, the side bit

instead of going down the escalator. Well, I got a little bit impatient. I was like, I bet I can raise you to the bottom. Yeah, and she slid down the middle bit. And obviously it's got them bumps, hasn't it, as you're going down? And as we've gotten down, she's obviously bumped off.

And then I've looked at Minnie's trousers. And she had the biggest slit. And her bum was basically out. And obviously, not everyone saw her do this. and everyone the whole night was like, Mills, your bum's out, basically. Like, literally, there was just a big flap in the jeans. It was raw as well. Listen, it happens to the best of it.

I can't feel the thing that's. It was it was. It was cut. And all you could just see was Mills's bum, just like hanging out. Shaking it in the club. But we still went out and had a good time. And she didn't care less. She was like, yep, I know I've got a big slit. I think I was getting annoyed.

I was like, I'm well aware. I'm very aware. Thank you for telling me again. But, oh, the next morning was a bit painful. I think the voice notes I said it. I was like, guys, I can't sit on the toilet, it's so bad. Oh, God. It is moments like that, though, that we remember.

I think even on, like, the tougher days, we always tell these little stories. And I think we are real people as well, like. Yeah. We're definitely real people. Yeah. Which I like. And we don't care how it sounds, really, or how it looks or whatever. We're just being ourselves all the time.

And I think that's probably the best thing about it, right? Yeah. But when we need to be, like, we're super professional and on the pitch, we'll do anything but I think Christmas break you got to enjoy yourself and yeah that's certainly one like I was in the circus I was literally like a ragged on I got to the bottom and hit one of the little gold like knobs at the bottom and I just went boi and I was like oh my god guys should you see that I've been like more important than have you seen your bum the sleeves was massive it was just like a big gaping like flat at the back favorite jeans

oh that was funny well all right pre-minute bright I know. The night went on though, the night went on. We still continue. You were still the last one then. Still got the score. Yep. Yeah, got the score to prove it, but yeah, won't be revealing that. It's so lovely seeing the friendship between you both. And you can tell how important it is that, like, you need to have that friendship in football. You've got each other. Millie, you've got your T4 crew, and you're close with Rach Daily. And you host a podcast to you then now as well. And Becky, we've seen you talk about people like Drew Spence and the bond you've had over the years,

how important are those friendships, especially in a sport where things change so quickly? Yeah, no, they're so important. I think, you know, like you said, with Drew, obviously. Bring her back. And, yeah, she's another one of the OGs. Bring her back the originals. Brousella, Jodie Brett, Drew Spence.

There's just so many. And there's like, you wouldn't make them friends if you weren't playing football. And I think that's why, like, we're really fortunate because, like, we've made, like, lifelong friends that are, like, family to us. And we'll do whatever it takes to be there for that person, even if they're at a different club

or if they're in a different country, like we're still, you know, in contact with people. And I think it's just nice to have that kind of feel when you're going to football. Like, if I go into football, you're having a bad day, you always know that there's someone there that you can either confide in or, you know, someone that can pick you up or just say like a silly memory or whatever it may be

or even just like a little look. Like if we're having a bad day, like I could be in the gym and I'll be like, this is a tough one. And I'll look at meals and then I'll just burst out laughing because we're both thinking the same thing. And I'm just like, yeah, she understands exactly where I know from. No. And I don't know where I'd be without my, like, group of people. Like, they've been through some of the hardest times with me

and times where other people aren't even aware of. Like, sometimes family aren't even aware of it, but my closest people down here, like, it's family away from family. They're the ones picking you up and, yeah, getting you through that next day. And you mentioned, obviously, how your family see football. What does that mean to you? What does having, like, a close family network mean to you outside of football? Yeah, I mean, it's massive.

I think me and Millie are really, like, family-orientated. And I think for me, you know, my family is why I play football. I've got one of five and three of my sisters all played football. So I kind of didn't have a choice in that when I was younger. It's the family trade. And there's a massive age gap as well. So I'm the youngest of five. And I think they've helped me, like, you know,

they've kind of nurtured me into the person and the, like, kind of the player that I am now. And, you know, just to go and chase what I wanted to chase. And they always gave me the space and the platform to do that within our family group and it's nice to like, you know, like today I'll be going back to the family house where my parents live and I'll meet up with my sisters now and it'll be nice to just talk about what they've been doing for the week because we've been in such an intense environment all week. It's kind of nice just to hear something different for once instead of it all being football and like Millie said, like sometimes family doesn't know everything and I

think there is a space for that where they don't need to know everything that's going on because they probably wouldn't understand either but they give me the other side to life where it's like They talk about stuff that I wouldn't think about in this environment. So then it opens up my eyes to a different perspective. So for me, I just enjoy going back and, you know, if they come and watch and stuff, I just know that they're always supporting. So, yeah, it's just lovely to have that kind of family around. And, you know, I'm just really lucky, to be honest.

That's lovely. Being one of five, God. Lexi once told us that a mum flew all the way to a sternier to bring a headband before a game. If any of your family's ever had to go to a length like that for you, guys? my mum weren't coming into Estonia they haven't had to they just chose to I mean I would never ask my mum to

No do that for a headband Yeah shout Alex's mum Big up Lexi's mum Yeah I wouldn't be doing that But no I've never I've never had to I think it's just always been What my mum and dad have done

And what my family have done And that's the I've never had to ask for anything I mean they'd probably like me to ask for a lot more But I don't stand on my own two feet And I always have done I'm kind of like the Yeah I've always just take care of myself and you know as parents they'll say you'll never understand until you're a parent one day

and I'm like how old you are let us take care of you and I'm like yeah I'm good I can do it all myself I guess that's just part of the person I am but yeah my first champs league game when we played Glasgow my mum and my dad drove all the way there and watched the game drove all the way back so it's like a seven hour yeah that's crazy drive there and seven hour back but then again they flew to Australia to watch the world cup so yeah I guess it's just they see it as that's what they do and my mum has this thing where she's like I'd hate if you were playing and you didn't have anyone in the crowd that's always a thought process like you can't have a life though if you want like you can just miss this game maybe you and dad can go somewhere or have some

no we're coming to the game your dad's cancelled work we'll come in okay cool see you there I think the cute thing that your parents do you know when they leave your messages and yeah the same message even regardless of Millie's playing or not it's the same message that I think she gets from her parents every week it's so cute it's like it's lovely my mum and she uses a red heart which I've had a debate about I said it on my podcast stop using a red heart she's like I can't now too far in like 12 years in I've got to keep the red heart

and I'm like okay I'll let you off and my dad says the same thing he's like make sure you don't like be tough and I'm literally a mini version of my dad and then I'd be like be careful no silly tackles I'm like kind of contradicted of the person you've created so it doesn't really make sense

no silly tackle what a guy having those people around you must make it a lot easier when you're going through all those big moments and the milestones and injuries and decisions about the future. Millie, you announced your retirement from international football this summer.

How important was that support network for you during that moment? Because that's huge. Yeah, it was massive. And again, that was actually a moment which Rach Daly was probably the only person that I'd spoke to and Beck's that had not really spoken to anyone else

about my decision and what I was thinking. And I think it's also important. and that you give yourself that space on that because family is so close to you, they're always, sometimes you get an emotional response whereas I think that's such a big decision. I need to be like head clear. And it's one of them things where you don't just sleep on it

and wake up and be like, oh yeah, I've decided I'm going to retire today. Like it's like a, I don't know, it's weird, it's like a moment, but it's like a long moment. So like for the whole year before that, like little things been springing in my head and, you know, I've mentioned little things to you and then I'm like, no, no, I'm like,

I'm still in, I'm going, like I'm still fighting, whatever, and I'm still enjoying it. And then you just get to these moments and things change in your life. And, yeah, there's not one factor that comes into it. It is just a feeling. But obviously, once I made my decision and I then told my family and, yeah, I think you get, like, mixed decisions as well and opinions, because for them, they're also losing something, like everything that they've ever known, which is supporting and going to games and they plan their whole week around my football

and summers and tournaments and then I kind of took that away from them. So, yeah, I think it is a shock for them in the first place but then I think once they digest, like, the reasoning and kind of my well-being and, you know, why I'm doing it and the benefits that are going to come from it, then it's easier to accept. But it is a big thing for them to kind of get over.

Like, it's hard, but having my people around me was like, yeah, I definitely needed them more than ever in that moment but honestly it's yeah it's I think once you're at peace with it yourself like that's that's that's that's all that matters no one else's opinion really really matters they can just support you and advise but even then I think it has to be your your decision no matter what so how did you feel making that announcement because it must have been quite some mixed feelings there because it's been such a massive part of your career yeah no it definitely is but I think once you come to terms of it and once it's your decision, solely your decision,

I didn't have any regrets whatsoever and I didn't feel any type of way once I'd made that decision. I just knew it was right. And yeah, I think you always get little signs in life. I'm a big believer that everything happens for a reason. And there were so many signs that kept coming to me. And I was like, okay, I'm definitely on the right tracks where I need to be in life and the direction that I'm going in. And yeah, I think for my own well-being as well, I think the summer in general, like I really took a step. back from everything and just kind of hit pause and I really needed to do that for me first and foremost as a person, not even as a player. And I think it allowed me to think a lot clearer

and kind of put everything into perspective and then make that decision. But honestly, I do think when it is the right decision and you made it, I kind of felt like a weight off my shoulders that I'd done it and kind of it was, I could move forward then and just be like the number one fan for the lionesses. But yeah, it's been an incredible job. something I'm very proud of, but yeah, no regrets at all. What an amazing career you've had and what a great place to leave it off. We've got some questions from fans now. I'm going to apologise in advance because I don't know where we're going to go with this.

I'm a bit excited. Don't know where we're going with this one. If you could bring back one ex-team mate for a day, who would it be? Gigi or Drew? Yeah, I was going to say Drew. You say Drew and then I'll say Gene we can have them all Yeah There we go

We've got Gigi and Drew coming back If there was a film made About the team Who would play each of you Oh That's such a good question God damn I'm stunned

I'm speechless for once I think I'd want Kevin Hart to play me Just because I absolutely love him I know he's obviously not possible Because he's male and I'm female, but... It is funny, though. He's...

If anyone out there can allow me to meet Kevin, I would love to. Right, this is... This is an official call out from the Chelsea Women's podcast. Kevin, I've been calling you out for a long time, mate. Can you please either follow me back or, like, just introduce yourself to me because I would love... This is very serious. And I've done to see one of his stand-up, I've watched them all on Netflix. Millie Bright needs to meet Kevin Hall.

He's so funny. Please make this happen. Yeah, hi, I'm here. Hi, Kevin. He'd do a good job and he would do something silly, like slide down the tube station and cut his bum like he would. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. I know it would.

I love that that bit makes it into the film. Yeah, 100%. Amazing international career, 300 Chelsea appearances. The bit we want is you sliding down the escalator. Yep, exactly. Bring the life and soul. I'm getting images of it now that I can actually like really recall that slide down the escalator.

Like, it was so clear in my head. If we see it in a Kevin Hart film, we know he's been watching the podcast. Exactly. We know he's a Millie Bright fan. Who's to make you? I think I would choose someone like, do you know, like Meredith Gray from Grey's Anatomy? Yeah. Because she's got her funny side.

She's got a little romantic side to her. Nice. She's got a serious side to her. I love that. I feel like she's a bit of an all-rounder, so I think I'd go for a Meredith. What a spectrum of casting, Kevin Hart and Ellen Pompeo. Kevin Hart, bam, in your face. what you see is what you get that's literally me that's the perfect match

i'm here for it i just have to get him a wig and get one of them them wigs out of changing room i've got they've just got such a perfect mental image of him yeah so it's a real good fit in it like you can already see it's sliding across the page i love that for him who's the first to reply to a text out of the two of you we're both pretty good We're good because we actually had a little joke yesterday, didn't do it. Yeah, yeah. Our group is terrible at replying to the group chat. It's the deadest group chat I've ever been apart.

But also aren't groups like to devil? Like, aren't they the worst thing to ever happen to human beings? It's nervous, though. It's nervy when you put a message in the group. I don't know, some of my personal group chats are pretty decent to me there. Every time I get added into a WhatsApp chat that's a hen party, a little part of me dies. Yeah, but you just mute it.

Mute the ones like you don't want pinging on your phone. Oh, I think I've got every group chat bar. I think I've, sorry, Mum, I've even got them. my family group channel, muted. Because I just don't need that. That's pinned at the top of my WhatsApp. Oh, now you're going to make me look bad. Yeah, I even said some karaoke videos this morning on my way in.

That is brutal, that is. Yeah. I think we're pretty good at replying, to be honest. I think it's the rest of the team. You need to question on that. It could be. We'll pull them up on it. Yeah, reply in the damn chat.

We'll make it a podcast exclusive. Every time they come on, like, watch your reply time. We'll test you right now. Yeah, exactly. We love that. It could be about something exciting as well. We could be planning like a little... We could be planning a little get-together

and a little slide down the tube and you don't want to be a part of it. Exactly. Do you remember? Sorry, I've just got a little story now. Do you remember when we was planning that night out at the end of the season last year? And obviously Millie was like, right, let's sort this night out

because obviously we've won the league now, blah, blah, blah. So Millie was like, right, I don't think many people are going to reply. All of a sudden... Ping, ping, ping. On the poll, it started going up and up. Millie was like, yeah, book a table for 10. because that's probably the amount that's going to come. And then I kept texting as like,

yeah, it's another five, so that's 15. And then all of a sudden, everyone was pressing yes, yes, yes, yes. So I'd have to squeeze a few more in. Yeah. And then in the end, I think I was about 30 of us. Yeah. Out. That sounds like a good night out to be funny.

But that's the only time they've responded very, very quick. Public service announcement to the Chelsea Women's team, reply to the damn chat. Yeah, not just the party ones, but the important messages as well that I actually need to give information back on. Thank you. If there was a team quiz night, who would you want on your team?

and why. Okay. I think I know who I'd want. Neve. Yeah, she's very smart. Neve's smart. Very. Brains of the team.

See, she's going logical. I'm going like enjoyment. Vibes. So like Sam. I like it. Pure like we're just there to have a good time. Don't care if we lose, to be honest. Coming up with like the most ridiculous in you and then Chris name.

Yeah, I mean, I'm not there to win the quiz. Yeah, I mean, I'm not going to win, but I need someone to lift my side up and I can win a bag of peanuts at the end of it. You need someone to carry the team. Yeah, you have Neve, you would win. I would not win. Sam's not really up there against Neve. We're having a good time, though.

That's all that matters. Exactly. It's a taking part, like, Gowlerless. If you two had to swap positions for a game, how do you think that would go? You'd be right in goal. You'd be fine at Senate back, just balling. I just don't want to head.

I wouldn't head of it there. That's right, just ducking, I'll be there. Yeah. I think we'd be right, actually. Yeah, we wouldn't be bad. Seam work makes the dream work. Well, I saw you if you can do it in training one day. Who from the team has impressed you the most so far this season?

That's a good question. Really good question. I'm going to go Ellie. Yeah. Just because I think to come into such a big team and like she for me has been like one of our best players like consistently every single game and to step into that role and yeah to just kind of grab it

and like I'm here to play and I'm here to perform and a passion and to have that much passion for a team that you've just moved to as well. I think it shows like her mentality, kind of her characteristics and the player that she is and her mentality to win. Yeah, I think she's been outstanding

and I think even in training she's the one pushing and driving and having another player like that I think is really helpful. That's really cool. Oh, what are you most looking forward to about Christmas this year? Are you really into Christmas?

Yes, my decoration's going up next week. I'm not. That's early, man. No, it's not. That's so early. It's 12 days of Christmas, not 12 months. No, Halloween's done.

Halloween's done, bonfire night's done. Why being so depressive? Get your lights up. Every time you walk in, you see your tree, you've got nice dim lights, your little candles on, and you just feel Christmas in and then everyone's smiling and happy. That's so early. It's doom and glue season.

I'm the opposite, I'm a bit of a scrooge. I don't, I'm not. No, and my tree is not coming down until second week in January. I'm leaving it up. Second week in January? Yes, leave it up. What are you rushing down for? That would give me the year.

if I kept walking into that tree every day. Oh no, mine's down, like, December 27th. It's still December? It is, yeah, but like Christmas has done, isn't it? Festive spirit and all that. I'm not even putting a tree up. Oh, thank you, Spencer, you will be able to put it up for you. I'm not putting a tree up, I don't think.

I get new, new baubles every single year. I change my whole colour scheme. No. What's the colour scheme for this year? Green. Green's my favourite colour. What sort of green are we going? A different shades green.

You'll see, don't worry, I'll be posting about it. Yeah, I need to see it. Yeah, I will. I really feel like I need some training inspiration. I might do a vlog, actually. Yeah, go on. Maybe I actually need to try this year. My bailies are not chocolate doing my Christmas decorations.

Perfect. This podcast is brought to you by Scudder, the official car partner of Chelsea Women and proud supporter of women's sport. It's football season. It's time for after work training, muddy boots and early morning weekend games. Whether you play five aside after work, cheer the kids on from the sidelines on a Saturday morning, or gather with your mates to watch the big leagues every weekend.

Skoda's the perfect companion for your everyday adventures. Skip around town in your all-electric eniac or give the squad a lift home in the seven-seat of Kodiak. There's something in the range to suit teams of all shapes and sizes. Don't just take my word for it there. Search the Skoda range today to jump in and see for yourself. Millie, recently, you've reached a huge milestone. You've had 300 appearances for Chelsea.

That's such an incredible number. When you think back to the player you were when you first arrived, what's changed the most for it. Oh. Not your ban. The bun's still bunny. Ariana keeps the ponytail. Why would Millie Bright get rid of the bun?

Exactly. No, thank you. I don't think, I think people, but who's that? Who's the new signing? No, it's just me. Oh, what's changed? I think a lot's changed. I think me individually,

I've obviously grown as a person, as a player. I think I've calmed down. I think when I first came, Emma always used to describe me as like, yeah, just, she was like, just stop and stand still. I was like, Dennis the many, so I was just, like, charging around and had so much energy and, like, Bexham probably remember those days as well. So, yeah, I think I've definitely, as you get older and more experienced and mature anyway, but I'd say, yeah, just finding my feet as a person, but as a player as well.

Do you have a favourite game or, like, one that stands out to you in your time at Chelsea? I'd probably say when we did five in a row, the last two games where we did something that no one expected us to do. So I think lifting it at, yeah, when we beat Manu at Old Trafford, it was 6-0, weren't it? Six-Nell? That's where we lifted the trophy. Yeah, that was ever's last game.

I think that's one of my favourite games. Just doing it in a stadium like that and, yeah, doing something that no one thought we could do really. but listen, there's so many games, there's so many trophy lifts and crazy moments. Yeah, I can't, that just, one that stands out recently just because it was such an important win, I think ending the season on like the biggest high,

like having an 8-0 win and then a 6-0 win in the last two games to win the league was crazy. And I think being able to send staff members off with the trophy that they deserved and kind of ending on a high and kind of closing that chapter was really, really special. Yeah, and women's football in general had so much of a growth in the period that you've been at Chelsea.

What's that like to watch as a player for the both of you? I mean, I just remember, like, the spectators and the fans. Like, we used to play and turn up, and we kind of, there was only, like, maybe, I'd say, about 100. Yeah, a couple of hundred max. And I think now, like, we're filling out stadiums and there's just such a big buzz and a big hype around it and people really enjoy coming to watch.

And I think, you know, women's football, we bring something different. And, you know, obviously we, you know, we speak to the fans after games and we can, we give as much as we can to the fans. And I think that's something that's quite special and unique within our game and something that we can, hopefully, that stays around. Just that interaction piece with fans and, I don't know, we are accessible at times and, you know, obviously there's a boundary. But I think that's what has brought the crowds in and obviously, like the Lioness is doing so well and, you know, numerous World Cups that have been like fantastic spectacles and stuff like that. So I think, yeah, I think it's been amazing, hasn't it? really, like to see the growth of the game. Yeah, I was looking back to games when we played at Staines

and there was literally like two good fans and as a player, like I remember whenever there was, we played there, I got around every single fan, like I did every single autograph, every single photo, whatever they wanted because it was so close-knit and they weren't that many, like, and I think that's what Bex is saying, the relationship with the fans is because we come from a place of that,

it was so easy to do every single signature and photograph and whatever else. So just have a conversation, like, it'd be little kids like, what was your favorite game, or whatever they might be asking? I think taking that time, built something that's completely different to any other sport, and it separates us from the men's game and makes us different. And I think that that is what is unique about the women's game. And I don't think we should ever lose that.

But I just think, just adding on to Bex's point, now there's like thousands of fans and we're selling out, it is impossible to get around all the fans. So I think it's now more of the, if you do get a photo or a signature it becomes like a luxury now even more of a luxury than it was before because there's so many

it's like you're like then the chosen one at the game like oh my God I managed to get a signature like nothing's and now we're under strict like we get 10 minutes after games to sign and do pictures and then we have to go in so now the game's getting more it's become more and more professional

more demanding we're straight in you know protein shakes recovery showered then we have a timer to get on the bus don't we yeah so it's like all these things that the fans don't understand, it's not because we don't want to. It's just because the game's moving so quickly and to the level that we want it to go to,

it's impossible to have the days where we could do every single signature. So I think the other side of it is it's exciting as a fan. If you do get chosen and you're lucky enough to get a signature, it becomes extra special. So I think it's looking at it in that light, rather than, oh, I didn't get a signature, she didn't take time, like, we just don't have that time anymore. And yeah, I'd love it if I could get a road

I could get a robot to just go around and sign all the signatures and everyone gets what they want and everyone's happy. But yeah, I'm sure soon there'll be robots flying around all over the place. So yeah, yeah, I'll just, yeah, exactly, we'll be out of the job. But yeah, I think the community feel is something that I've always loved about the women's game, like always. And I think you've grown with the fans, like these fans from back in the Staines days that are still coming now and they almost see you grow as a player and a person as well.

So it's like special for them. So yeah, it does separate us from, from anything else. It must be really special for the fans to be a part of, because the community spirit in women's football is so strong and they've been so integral to making it where it is at the moment. Becky, you joined Chelsea for the first time a couple of years after Millie.

You'd already had a decade in the game by then. What was that journey like for you? Yeah, I mean, it's pretty similar. I think because I started at such a young age, like obviously I made my debut for Arsenal at 14. So when you're... I'm in a field with a white lightning at full feet. I'm probably still riding my skateboard, to be honest.

So I've had to kind of grow up really quickly. And it was like I never really got that kind of, it was straight into almost professional football. And, you know, back then people weren't getting paid to play. Like we were doing it for the love of the game and we were playing. And, you know, I had a job. I had to work in the laundry at Arsenal because that was the only thing that I could do at the same time as playing.

And yeah, I mean, I think. It's just pretty similar. I think you go from having, you know, just like minimal fans than having a lot of fans. And like Millie said, you grow with the fans. They get to know your journey and you kind of see the same faces over and over and it's quite nice. And the thing that I've seen recently with the fans is they've got like the supporter groups. And sometimes you, you know, you could be scrolling on Instagram and you can see them like meeting up with other teams fans as well. And I think that's quite nice. Like it's a nice like experience for them to have like if there's an away game. I think they meet at a pub or whatever.

get a coach down and it's like a whole day event and obviously they're spending their hard-earned money to come and watch us play which is you know so appreciated by us um so i think that's another part of it like it's just nice to see and you know there's plenty of kids that come and watch and they've also got a pathway as well and it's just it's nice to have been a part of building that pathway for for the kids to come through yeah because you guys are really laying the foundation for the next generation of women's football and there's kids now that in 10 15 years time they're going to be part the lionesses, what is that feeling like for you guys knowing that these kids that are looking up to you, they're going to, they're going to talk about you in interviews at some

point in the future. I'll probably say we're annoying. She's constantly, they're telling me to do this. I was like, guys, it's tough love, you'll learn one day, believe me. I feel like a parent without giving birth, like that's what I feel like at times. But yeah, I think it's sometimes one of their moments where they might not see it now or understand it now, but when they get to where we're sat and, you know, kind of what we've been through,

they'll understand it a little bit more then. And it is, it's lessons. Like, I've always said everyone has a responsibility to leave the shirt in a better place, that change the game. The women's game has always been a growing. Like, it just keeps this momentum and we keep going and pushing and wanting more

and the ceilings as high as we want it to be, to be honest. And I think that is the beauty of the game that we get to play and, you know, lucky enough to call our jobs. But, yeah, it's amazing to know that, like Beck said, I think, been a part of something and been a part of a legacy that, you'll one day leave and it'll go on to the next generation and so on. I think being a part of that and been able to sit back.

Like, I'm like super proud of Ags, like just sitting back and seeing her grow and now she's in, you know, the lionesses and she's shining for them and shining for Chelsea. And I think knowing that you've been a part of their journey, you've helped them. I think that's like a really proud thing to do. And, yeah, I mean, one day when we're sat on our sofas and years to come, sitting back, relaxing and watching the kids shine. but yeah she was one of ours and I think as well for us I think you know it's not all just about

football I think as people like we've always you know I mean like fighting for different causes and wanted to be the best people we could be and I think in football it's important that the human element is still there you know what obviously once we're retired and we're finished the game's going to be a lot further on than it is now and I just hope that you know the kids coming through actually see us for for people and not just footballers like I want they want them to see that we're actually like good humans and, you know, we all look after each other. And I hope that kind of stays within the game because it's so important. We're getting really deep today on the podcast. I like it. But we didn't start that way. We didn't. And then we went really seriously

for making giggles to, we want everybody to know. We're looking at again. I love it. You guys have been such a big part of Chelsea's transformation. What do you think's been the biggest shift within the club. A lot. I mean, so much has changed. You know, even down to, like, facilities is probably one of the main things that has... Yeah, I think the physical things is the facilities

that we now have. But I kind of like that we've won so much without having everything. Yeah. Because I think, again, it's a reminder to the next generation. You don't need everything to win. You don't need everything to be the best. I think it goes back to that team,

being good people, looking after each other. I mean, we're used to training that. that little shed, that used to be our gym. They'd be like 22 players in where the kit men are now. That was literally our gym. Oh my God. And we won trophy after trophy in that little thing. And like, I kind of like that we've come from that.

Yeah. We've won with that. Almost having, obviously we had stuff, but not, it's coming from literally like, we're building it from the bottom upwards. Literally nothing. And yeah, we're in the, in the shed, lifting weights and whatever. Like, we couldn't even.

You have to get your raincoat on and get outside if you need more space. But I like that. But then on the flip side, we've always been in a position where we've been successful, so we've pushed and we've demanded more, but whilst winning at the same time. But I really like that, and I think it keeps you grounded.

I think it keeps you humble, and yeah, you've always got to keep two feet on the ground no matter how successful you are. But I think the mentality of the club as well, on a bigger piece is that the women's team been seen sometimes first before the men's. I think that's changed. I think we were, you come from,

I do think as well, and I've said this in an interview. People are always so scared to say where you've come from. Like, as a club, we did come from a place where it was men, academy, women. That was, that's how it felt when I first came, the order was. And it takes time and that's something that Emma and her staff, like, kind of built, and she fought for us so much, and she completely shaped the club and made it so that it was Chelsea, and the men and women were there,

and then it was the academy and so on and so on. So she completely leveled scales, and I think sometimes we're afraid to say that. that's where we come from, but if you don't state where you came from, you don't know the growth. No one's going to know. It's not a bad thing. It's just that's how you evolve.

That's how things develop and grow and you have to admit where you were and now where you've got to. So I do think it's a mentality and a bigger piece as a club and the women have been at the front of things and, you know, there'll be some things the men lead on then we might take a lead on an advert

or just for an example. I don't think it's always like, it just, the scales sometimes flip and that's fine. And I think it's, And obviously it's like we've been leaders in that as well. So like other clubs, we know that have been going through that. They went through a similar time as well. So to kind of lead the way with that is something that's really important just to show,

you know, the rest of the clubs in our league and stuff. Like this is the way that we need, things should be. So then it also gives, you know, other teams and staff and other clubs encourages them to to push on and it makes it more, you know, the league more exciting and it makes it more, you know, competitive. So we're going to move on to a segment called Whistleblower. I'm going to give you guys the chance to be the referee and give people red and yellow cards on people's lives.

The fans have sent in some scenarios. Basically, this is your chance. Did he really want me to do this? To get as judgmental as possible. So our first scenario is, my best friend hates surprises and has said that she wants to chill on her birthday this year. But her girlfriend is planning a massive surprise party. Do I warn her or do I stay out of it,

This is my worst night there. Stay out of it. I think so. It's not our problem, is it? Do you love? Stay out of it, yeah. Stay out of it. You don't want to be getting in that drama.

Bury your head in the sand. Bunker down. And also, birthdays, you are meant to get surprises. I love doing surprises. You should celebrate every birthday. It's another year to be grateful for. That's way more wholesome than I was expecting. Well, I could have said a lot more.

You could. Nice to be short, isn't it? Life's too short. Enjoy your damn birthday. Yeah. Life's too short. Just like, set the surprise and jog on.

Exactly. Because someone's willing to give you a surprise. She'll have my choice. Have a lovely birthday. And yeah, just stay out of it. Stay out of it. Oh,

second scenario. My housemate borrowed my toothbrush whilst Hayes was charging. Am I being dramatic? Or is that really gross? That's gross. That is absolutely disgusting. That's like a three game ban.

That's disgusting. I'd rather go without brushing my teeth than use someone else's tooth brush. That is vile. That is gross. Do people not do that thing anymore that they used to do at sleepovers where you just use your finger and a bit of toothpaste? Yeah, stick a bit of mouthwash in there, worst case scenario. Bit chewing gum.

Oh, go to the shop and get a toothbrush and come back and brush teeth. That's just a bit grim, isn't it? That's great. If anyone else did that, that you'd be out of my life. I'd actually be feeling. I'd actually be feeling. I'd actually be feeling. I'd actually be human.

I'd actually be human. That's my, you like my block and delete trait. I love that. Instant ghost. I like you. Yeah, see you. Final scenario. My best friend's baby has recently celebrated their first birthday

A milestone I had completely forgotten about until my friend messaged me thanking me for the extremely thoughtful gift which clearly was a mix up. I have no idea what the thoughtful gift might be but do I just take credit and say you're welcome at risk of being found out down the line or do I come clean and admit that I completely forgot about

the one year old. Darling you need to come clean because she's already aware of it. That is not a genuine... That is not a genuine message of thank you that is you messed up. That's passive aggression. Passive, aggressive. She's got to be honest

and come clean with that one. And you better be going and getting several gifts. Book the Disney trip while you're at it, to be honest. You've got to... And Lapland for Christmas as well. Latland, Lego Lange, whilst we're at it,

Disney. To so soon as... I think she's going to have to... You're going to have to... Do the most now. Get your overnight shifts in love. Because you're going to need to pull some of the big out of the back.

You're going to... That's really bad though. That is terrible. That's... Yeah, that's not the most ideal scenario ever. Because I'd see it as like my best friend's little ones, like, I'm there, auntie. I'm not just your best friend.

Like, that's my niece or nephew. That's how I view it. And I would never, I don't forget anyone's birthdays anyway. How guilty would you feel, though? Do you spoil your niece and you're sleeping at that? And it's been like, yeah. No worries. No, no, no.

If you want your best friend still, I'd suggest you make up for it. Yeah. Do you spoil your nieces and nephews anyway? Oh, yeah. And they know it. Are you the favourite auntie? Yes. Yeah.

If they don't get it, they're like, oh, let's just ring Auntie Millie. I get a list Can I have a dirt bike for Christmas? I'll be on some real-life tractor Not a plastic one You're like, I want a tractor Well, I hope they don't still ask you When they're old enough to drive

Because that's going to be one expensive Yeah, because you can drive a tractor legally From 16 I'm the sucker that gets them everything So they are spoiled But I love them Looking ahead to the rest of the season What are you most excited about

For the season ahead? Just the games Yeah I think the games are so competitive now and they're so hard and I think even still early on in the season we're seeing fixtures and results that people don't expect so I think it makes it really interesting in the league

and I think this one will be the closest out of any I think teams are already like chopping and changing in changing positions so I'm just excited for the challenge of the games and the level that it's at now is so hard. Is there any personal goals that you've set for yourselves either on or off the pitch. Yeah, I mean, I think for me, like, obviously at my age now,

I'm kind of, I want to say, coming towards the end of my career. I think I'm just focusing on more how to change the game a little bit more, not just in football, but women's sport in different cultures as well. Obviously, I play for Jamaica, so just trying to make change in that country too. So I think for me, like I'm focusing a lot on, you know, helping environments and even the Chelsea environment, just wanting to be, you know, a person that can help shape what's next. Like we always say, we want to leave the place

and a better place than it was. So for me, that's my, that's kind of my goal. I don't really do personal ones. I guess just to be available, keep winning, keep helping the kids, make sure the next generation are, you know, understanding what's to come and how to be a Chelsea player and what that looks like and how to stay at the top.

Getting there is hard, but staying at the top's even harder. But I think just to, be the best for the team and to, yeah, keep the winning legacy going. And after such a historic season, how do you go into this one knowing that there's a lot of pressure and quite high expectation for you guys? It's the same as any other season, isn't it? I think the target just gets bigger and bigger on our backs, but again, I think that's the privilege of playing for one of the biggest

clubs in the world and the kind of history that we've created for ourselves. I think naturally that comes with being a Chelsea player. So if anything, you relish it and, yeah, just thrive in that environment. So I think as long as we keep doing the daily things, make training difficult for each other, keep it competitive, keep pushing. As long as we don't stand still, like, you're always going to keep evolving. But I think that's part and part of being a Chelsea player and you're always going to have a target on your back when you keep annoying the rest of the world by winning.

Well, thank you guys so much. You're saying for the time to shout, it's honestly been so much fun. and enjoy the misty season. Thank you. We'll be back soon. Come back after Christmas, I'll have another story for you. Thank you for listening to We Are Chelsea, the official podcast of Chelsea Women,

brought to you in association with Skoda, the official car partner for Chelsea Women and proud supporters of women's sport. Remember, if you want to get involved with the podcast this season, send us your whistleblower stories to our email. We are Chelsea at Chelseafc.com and make sure to comment on our YouTube video as well. Thank you.