Kane's class - but England need new No.9 to lead World Cup bid

It's too easy for Ramirez! Clinical Chelsea look ominous

England's biggest winners & losers from the Nations League

How it feels to beat Lionel Messi

The best Premier League loanees of the season so far

Szoboszlai in tears as Netherlands vs Hungary is halted

Kroos opens door to Real Madrid return 

Why Ronaldo has been released from the Portugal squad

Rashford branded a 'clown' after attending New York Knicks game

Ronaldo sets clear timeline for retirement

Barcelona icon Pique weighs in on Ronaldo & Messi GOAT debate

Neymar move ruled out as Brazilian club president mocks his injury struggles

Real Madrid 'prioritised shirt sales' with Mbappe signing

Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Russo conquered Europe with the Lionesses</li><li>Inspired England to the World Cup final</li><li>Became the eighth person to receive award</li></ul>

Alessia Russo honoured with Freedom of Maidstone for Lionesses exploits as Arsenal star out to 'inspire the next generation'

Women's Champions League

Arsenal Women

Juventus

Friendlies

England

Russo's remarkable journey with the England women's team includes a stellar performance in Euro 2022, where she played a pivotal role in the nation's triumph, netting four goals during the tournament. Additionally, her incredible contributions propelled the Lionesses to their maiden World Cup final, marking a historic milestone for the team.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Hailing from Maidstone, Russo boasts of having a special bond with her hometown. She became the eighth recipient of the honourary freedom, which is awarded to local people for their outstanding contribution to the borough.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Expressing her gratitude, Russo remarked: "It's a huge honour for me to receive this accolade. Maidstone is my home and always will be, so I'm delighted to have been awarded the freedom of the borough."Beyond her personal joy, Russo remains committed to using her platform to advocate for women's football in the community. She aspires to inspire the next generation of Lionesses, fostering a legacy of empowerment and inclusivity in sports."I will continue to promote women's football in the area and hopefully I can help and inspire the next generation of Lionesses," she said.

WHAT RUSSO SAID

The Maidstone Borough Council, in collaboration with Russo's family, has orchestrated efforts to commemorate her remarkable contributions to women's football. Recognising the significance of Russo's legacy, alongside that of the Lionesses, the council anticipates a positive impact on sports participation, particularly among young girls aspiring to follow her example.Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Gordon Newton, expressed pride in Russo's achievements and said: "We are very proud of Alessia's achievements and continued contribution to the game of football. I sincerely hope that she will encourage more young people – both girls and boys to follow in her footsteps."

DID YOU KNOW?

Russo's recognition underscores her indelible mark on the world of football and her enduring influence as a role model for aspiring athletes across Maidstone and beyond. She will be back in action with Arsenal in a north London derby against Tottenham on Sunday in the WSL.

WHAT NEXT?

Alessia Russo honoured with Freedom of Maidstone for Lionesses exploits as Arsenal star out to 'inspire the next generation' | Goal.com

Alessia Russo has been honoured with Freedom of Maidstone for her heroics with England as the Arsenal star aims to &quot;inspire the next generation&quot;.