Alessia Russo gives pointed response to England "pressure" ahead of World Cup
Alessia Russo says the Lionesses won’t feel any extra pressure at the World Cup - because there’s always a target on England’s back.
The reigning European Champions head Down Under with expectations growing that they could follow up last year’s Wembley triumph on the biggest stage of all.
The striker, who appears set to move from Manchester United to Arsenal ahead of next season, goes into the tournament unsure of her place in Sarina Wiegman’s starting XI.
Competition is fierce up front with WSL Golden Boot winner Rachel Daly and in-form Spurs’ forward Beth England vying for a spot.
That gives the Lionesses plenty of options and, asked if the triumph over Germany last year had upped the ante, Russo said that it had - but only outside the squad.
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She said: “Those outside put more pressure on us than we do ourselves. Obviously, there was lots of pressure on us during the Euros but that’s English football for you.
“Every team going into a tournament will say they’re under pressure to do well - but in international football there’s always a target on England’s back.
“We’re feeling really good. It will be a completely different tournament to last year. That was incredible. But everyone saw what we can do and now is our time to come together.”
Russo sidestepped the issue of her future, saying only: “You’ve got to get things sorted - there’s no nice time to do that.”
Wiegman herself does not want any distractions to the job in hand and has said any talk about personal transfers should be aired before the competition gets underway, or else shelved until afterwards.
That leaves just early next week as a potential window - the Lionesses head to a camp on the Gold Coast - as the only time for her switch to join Jonas Eidevall’s side to be announced prior to the big kick-off.
Eleven months ago, Russo’s goal in the semi-final rout of Sweden during the Euros brought her to the public consciousness. An audacious backheel put the seal on a night to remember at Bramall Lane.
She added: “People ask me about that goal - you probably won’t see it again - but that’s okay. We felt - and feel - like we can play with our instincts. Like you did when you were a kid.
“That’s what makes this team special. When you got out on the pitch you feel confident and comfortable. Ultimately, that’s what wins us important games. And I think there will be plenty more of that this summer.”
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