Russo named England player of the year

Alessia Russo has scored 31 goals in 68 games for England

Forward Alessia Russo has been named England women's player of the year.

The 27-year-old, who also won the award two seasons ago, has been a key player in the 2025-26 campaign, featuring in all 10 games and scoring five goals.

She started nine of those games, including all six of England's 2027 World Cup qualifiers.

Last week, she scored the third goal as England beat Greece 3-1 in their 2027 World Cup play-off semi-final first leg, with the second leg at Leicester's King Power Stadium on Tuesday.

Arsenal's Russo pipped Chelsea pair Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton to the award, which is voted for by fans.

"To receive the award is really special, particularly as it comes directly from the fans. I am so grateful for their support," said Russo.

Russo is among 30 players who were nominated in September for the women's Ballon d'Or, with Alex Greenwood the only other English player on the shortlist.

'Russo needs to start as a nine for England'

"A big thank you also to my team-mates - it is always about the collective," Russo added.

Russo has represented England at every stage from under-15s level upwards and won her first senior international cap when she came on as a substitute against Spain in the final game of the 2020 SheBelieves Cup.

She has gone on to score 31 goals in 68 games for her country, helping England win Euro 2022 and then retaining the title three years later.

Russo was the top English scorer in the Women's Super League last season, with 13 goals, as she also provided six assists.

She scored twice in a 3-0 win at Aston Villa in May as she helped Arsenal secure Champions League qualification.

Russo scores stunner against Man City

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