Alessia Russo: ‘Fantastic human’ shines in Arsenal WSL win at Everton

Russo’s performance at Goodison Park was delivered as if she had overheard her manager’s glowing pre-match praise.

She did “many things” all over the pitch in a dominant win for the Gunners, and was fully deserving of the player of the match award.

Russo registered an xG of 1, which accounted for 51.28% of Arsenal’s total 1.95 xG on Saturday afternoon, hitting the target with four of her eight shots, scoring once. She also had the most touches of any Arsenal player in the Everton box (16).

Often maligned for her lack of goals compared with fellow forward Blackstenius, Russo’s all-round play is what makes her a key component in Slegers’ system.

England team-mate Esme Morgan explained on Sky Sports: “Less is such a complete player. She offers so much to the team that is more than just goals.

“When we play at England, so many of the goals we score, Less is involved four or five passes before the finish. We rely on her so much.”

Morgan added: “It is frustrating to hear people criticise her for a lack of goals. She offers so much and does it so selflessly. She is a glue for the rest of the team to function better.”