England players feeling 'disconnected' ahead of Spain Women's World Cup final showdown
England star Alessia Russo has spoken out ahead of Spain Women's World Cup final
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England star Alessia Russo has admitted the players feel 'disconnected' from fans back home ahead of their Women's World Cup final showdown with Spain on Sunday.
The Lionesses have the backing of the nation as they look to win the biggest trophy football has to offer.
And Russo, who scored as England beat Australia to make the final on Wednesday, has admitted players feel 'disconnected' from fans back home ahead of the match with Spain.
"We noticed a big difference during the Euros. The way the country got behind us was incredible," she said.
England star Alessia Russo scored against Australia in the semi-final win on Wednesday
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"The Australian support has been amazing ever since we touched down, everyone's been so welcoming and supportive. You've seen it with the stadium sell-outs.
"People keep telling us the support back home is amazing.
"We're so grateful, our fans mean a lot to us.
"We feel a little disconnected to it right now as players because all our focus is on the game but hopefully we can see them and celebrate with them when we're back."
The Arsenal star also lavished praise on manager Sarina Wiegman for the way she's turned England into such a formidable force.
"The first thing that comes to mind is that she's a winner," she said.
"She sets the standard so high everyday in training and she leads with real class.
"It's great for us as players because it's so competitive and we're all focused on the same goal.
"Away from the pitch, she lets us enjoy our own time and switch off which is really important.
"She's honest and up front and that's something as a player I really respect."
England players could be forgiven for feeling nervous ahead of the match with Spain.
But Russo insists that isn't the case and has claimed the Lionesses are in good spirits as they approach the biggest game in their history.
"We're all aware it's the World Cup final but as soon as the first whistle goes it's just a normal game," she added.
"That's what we love to do, what we want to be doing.
"It's 11 v 11, we know our job, we know what we want to do. We're just going to play our game.
"Everyone's obviously excited but we're very relaxed, very chilled. It's just another game for us.
"It shows the composure of the team. It's another game that we must win."
And Russo also admits the magnitude of the occasion hasn't yet sunk in, while also insisting England can end 56 years of hurt with a stunning triumph.
"This is the biggest game, the one you dream about, the one that means the most," continued the Arsenal star.
"I feel like it'll hit when we're in the tunnel.
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England star Alessia Russo has hailed Sarina Wiegman ahead of Spain showdown
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"It's an incredible occasion, it's been an unbelievable tournament. This is it, it's exactly where we want to be and we can't wait."