LONDON — Alessia Russo has been named England women's player of the year, with the 27-year-old Arsenal forward claiming the fan-voted award for the second time in three seasons. Russo has been a key player in the 2025-26 campaign, featuring in all 10 games and scoring five goals, and she now has 31 goals in 68 games for England.
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," Russo said. "A big thank you also to my team-mates - it is always about the collective."
The honor follows her decisive contribution last week, when she scored the third goal as England beat Greece 3-1 in the first leg of their 2027 World Cup play-off semi-final. The away victory gave England control of the tie, with Russo's strike sealing the two-goal advantage.
England host Greece in the second leg at Leicester's King Power Stadium on Tuesday, where Russo will look to add to her tally and help England advance. Her consistency across all 10 appearances this season has made her central to England's attack as it pushes for World Cup qualification.