Alessia Russo’s ‘incredible growth’ for England – Wiegman | OneFootball

England manager Sarina Wiegman praised Alessia Russo’s development and versatility ahead of the Lionesses’ World Cup qualifying clash with Iceland.

There has been much discussion about the forward’s best position this season, with Russo often playing deeper for Arsenal but operating as a traditional number nine for England.

The 27-year-old has become one of Wiegman’s most reliable and experienced players, and the Lionesses coach was full of praise for her progress.

“Alessia has learned so much about herself, about the game and her game understanding,” Wiegman said. “If we look at when we started working together to where she’s now, there is incredible growth and that helps the team too.

“I think Alessia can play in both positions. That’s what she has shown for Arsenal. For us, only once or twice, but we know we have options in that and it’s nice to have a little bit of versatility in that. 

“For us, the way we set up and how our team composition is at this moment, her best position for us now is number nine. But we also know that Alessia can play in that other position too if it’s needed and that she’s comfortable with that.”

Wiegman was speaking in Nottingham ahead of England’s second World Cup 2027 qualifier against Iceland at the City Ground on Saturday.

England opened their campaign with a comfortable 6-1 victory over Ukraine on Tuesday, with Russo scoring twice after opening the scoring.

The Arsenal forward, who played a key role in England’s European Championship triumphs in 2022 and 2025, joined Wiegman at the pre-match press conference.

“I’ll play anywhere for club and country, I just love playing football,” Russo said. “Different positions require me to tap into different mindsets.

“I like having the ball at my feet, which maybe you get a little bit more in the ten role. But in the nine, I love being in and around the box. I’ll play wherever needed and hopefully do both to the best I can.

“I understand the game a lot more and as I have grown up I have learned a lot about myself and my playing style. I’ll play wherever the team needs me in that moment.”