Alessia Russo is awarded the Freedom of Maidstone for her achievements with the Lionesses… as the England star reveals plan to ‘continue inspiring next generation’

Alessia Russohas received Maidstone Borough Council’s honorary Freedom Award for her historic achievements with the Lionesses.

Russo was part of the England team that won Euro 2022, scoring four goals in the tournament and was also top scorer when the Lionesses reached the World Cup final for the first time last summer.

Russo grew up in Maidstone and is only the eighth person to be granted the honorary freedom of the town, in what was a unanimous vote.

“It is a great honor for me to receive this award,” Russo said.

‘Maidstone is my home and always will be, so I am delighted to have been granted the freedom of the borough. “I will continue to promote women’s football in the area and hope to help and inspire the next generation of Lionesses.”

Russo was part of the England team that won Euro 2022 and reached the World Cup final last year

Russo, who now plays for Arsenal, grew up in Maidstone and said he will continue to try to help inspire the next generation.

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maidsTone Borough Council has been working with Russo’s family to celebrate her achievements and contribution to women’s football. Her legacy, along with that of the Lionesses, will help increase participation in sport, particularly that of girls playing football.

“We are very proud of Alessia’s achievements and her continued contribution to football,” said Maidstone Mayor and Councilor Gordon Newton.

“I sincerely hope it encourages more young people, both girls and boys, to follow in his footsteps.”