Alessia Russo named England women's player of the year

Alessia Russo was named England women's player of the year on 11 October 2026. The 27-year-old forward has scored 31 goals in 68 games for England.

Russo, who also won the same award two seasons ago, was a regular in England's 2025-26 campaign, featuring in all 10 games and scoring five goals. She started nine of those matches, including all six of England's 2027 World Cup qualifiers. Arsenal's Russo pipped Chelsea pair Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton to the award, which is voted for by fans.

At club level, Russo was the top English scorer in the Women's Super League last season with 13 goals and 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 has represented England from under-15s 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 played a part in England's success at Euro 2022 and in retaining the title three years later.

Russo was among 30 players nominated in September for the women's Ballon d'Or, with Alex Greenwood the only other English player on the shortlist. "To receive the award is really special, particularly as it comes directly from the fans. I am so grateful for their support," said Russo. "A big thank you also to my team-mates - it is always about the collective," Russo added.

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.