Every Alessia Russo goal and assist from 2021/2022 as Euro 22 star kicks off fresh WSL season with Man United Women

The 23-year-old starred as one of Sarina Wiegman’s ‘super-subs’ during the home tournament, stepping off the bench in all six games of England’s journey to Euro 2022 glory.

With a four-goal haul, Russo was the tournament’s third-highest scorer after teammate Beth Mead and Germany’s Alexandra Popp and the Reds striker was awarded ‘Goal of the Tournament’ by UEFA for her cheeky back-heel against Sweden.

Russo’s fine form pre-dated her exploits from the bench this July, though. Last season, the Kent-born attacker was Manchester United’s top scorer, bagging 11 goals and providing four assists as Marc Skinner’s side narrowly missed out on a Champions League qualification spot with a fourth-placed finish.

Skinner has brought in a clutch of impressive signings which could make the difference this term. Attackers Rachel Williams and Adriana Leon have made the move from WSL rivals, while Spain forward Lucía García adds a touch of class to Skinner’s front line.

New arrivals France defender Aïssatou Tounkara and Lioness Nikita Parris also boast international experience, while the capture of young prospect Maya Le Tissier from Brighton and Hove Albion was a real coup for Skinner.

The arrival of no less than four new attack-minded players will further incentivise Russo - though, she didn’t look lacking in motivation during England’s World Cup qualifying games earlier this month.

Following the retirement of England’s record-holding goal scorer Ellen White in August, Russo graduated from super-sub to super-starter in the Lionesses’ away game against Austria.

Within seven minutes, the United forward had put Wiegman’s side ahead before new Reds teammate Parris doubled the visitors’ lead. Russo chipped in again during England’s 10-0 thrashing of Luxembourg at Stoke City just days later, taking her international goal haul to six in eight games before heading back to Manchester to make preparations for the WSL opener.

On Saturday, the Reds will take on Reading at the Leigh Sports Village, with kick-off set for noon. You can stream the game for free on the FA Player.