Alessia Russo named Lioness of the year

Alessia Russo has been named England Women's Player of the Year for the second time.

The Arsenal striker won the award after a vote by fans, beating fellow England teammates Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton, who finished second and third.

The 27-year-old has had a strong season for the Lionesses, scoring five goals in 10 games during the 2025-26 campaign.

Russo has also been nominated for the women's Ballon d'Or, an award given to the world's best footballers.

Thousands of fans voted for Russo to win the award, which recognises the England women's player they think performed best during the season.

It's the second time the Arsenal striker has won the award - she also won the prize two years ago.

Russo started nine of England's 10 matches during the 2025-26 season, including all six of their qualifying games for next year's Women's World Cup.

She was also the top English scorer in the Women's Super League last season, with 13 goals and six assists, including two goals against Aston Villa in May as she helped Arsenal get into the Champions League.

Russo said she was delighted with this win: "To receive the award is really special, particularly as it comes directly from the fans.

"I absolutely love playing for England every moment I get... hopefully we will go on to have a really big season."