‘I’ve grown a lot this season’ – Russo ‘really grateful’ after being named FWA player of the year | OneFootball

England and Arsenal star Alessia Russo says she has “grown a lot” this season after being voted Women’s Footballer of the Year by the members of the Football Writers Association.

The striker has scored 24 goals and made five assists for club and country across all competitions this season and her season is not over yet, with Arsenal playing Barcelona in Saturday’s Champions League final.

Russo said: “I didn’t start as I wanted to, my progression throughout the year is something I’m proud of. I’ve grown a lot as a person and a player, matured a lot more.”

“I’m not a young player anymore. It’s been great to have a little adversity at the start of the season and have time to turn it around.”

The striker, despite feeling “honoured and proud” of her individual award, was keen to give credit to her teammates.

She said: “I felt really grateful to be a part of the team that allowed me to win an award like this. I’m playing with so many great players, they put the ball in the right areas for me. As a nine, I’ve just got to be there as much as I can.”

Ahead of a massive Champions League final, Russo looked back at the season’s efforts: “I’ve been working a lot, especially since I joined Arsenal. Things are starting to come to fruition, I always want more but I’ve scored quite a few more this season.

“That first and foremost has helped push my game but I like to think I offer more than just that to the team. I’m quite a strong, tall player so I have to use my physicality to help link play and hold up the ball.

“This season we’ve obviously played a lot more games, progressing in the Champions League.

“You only have short turnarounds in-between games. Staying fit, switching focus and adapting to the different opposition. There’s so many different players and teams you come up against, it’s been adaptable to what’s in front of you and how you can best impact that game.”

With club silverware within reach, the 26 year old said: “Nothing beats winning a team trophy but it’s nice to be recognised along the way but that’s only because of what I’m in and what I’m surrounded by. It’s a massive moment, me and my family are really proud.”

Russo also has the European Women’s Championship to look forward to, with England entering the competition as holders of the trophy.

Russo said: “To be completely honest, the club season has been so busy, there’s not been a whole lot of time to fully focus on it yet.

“As a player you’re always aware of a massive tournament like this. That feeling of playing in a major tournament with your country is really special. After Saturday, all eyes will be on it. I’m very excited.

“For the last Euros I wanted to go into it and enjoy every moment. I still want to enjoy every moment and be present, I want to stay really present but I do feel I have a bigger role in the team now. I’m not a young player anymore, I’ve got to accept that and step up as well.”

With the potential for team awards to follow her individual accolade in the near future, Russo cast one eye to the distant future and considered her legacy in the game.

She said: “For me, I want to keep doing what I can on the pitch to be remembered as a great player. I want to keep winning things at Arsenal and at country.

“Keep pushing the bar for women’s football. Being a good leader, a good player and a good person. Legacy is hard to define when you’re still playing.

“I’m just trying to do my best and be the vest version of myself. Hopefully one day down the line it’s looked as impactful. I’ll keep doing that for now.”