Alessia Russo endured a rollercoaster summer but will be itching to return to action with the Lionesses after sitting out tonight's Nations League clash with Scotland.

The striker and her England team-mates were heartbroken when their World Cup campaign in Australia and New Zealand ended with a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final. 

She suffered more pain with new club Arsenal earlier this month as they battled to book a place in Champions League group stage. 

Having netted twice against Paris FC in a game that finished 3-3 after extra-time, Russo missed from the spot before the Gunners crashed out 4-2 on penalties. 

Now back on familiar territory with the national team, the 24-year-old hotshot has been removed from the firing line against the Auld Enemy to ensure she is ready to face the Netherlands on Tuesday. 

Rest up

While Wiegman is keen to see her Euro 2022 winners get off to a good start in the inaugural Women's Nations League, she is keen for Russo to fully recharge her batteries.

Speaking ahead of the encounter at the Stadium of Light, the England boss said: "She's fine, she's good.

"But before camp I had a conversation with her and decided she needed a little more rest.

"She really needs a couple of days' rest, which means she will not be available for Scotland."

A new challenge

Russo enjoyed an eye-catching 2022-23 Women's Super League campaign with Manchester United.

The Maidstone native scored 10 goals in 20 league appearances as the Red Devils finished runners-up to Chelsea. 

And after switching to North London as a free agent during the summer, Russo will be keen to go one better this season. 

Big miss

Russo's absence will not just be felt tonight — fellow Lioness and former club-mate Ella Toone is also aware how much United will miss her.

Speaking recently, the midfielder, 24, said: "She's my best mate, so it's always nice to have someone who's so close by your side every single day.

"But that's part and parcel of football and people move on. She's starting a new chapter in her career.

"She'll be a massive loss around the club. An unbelievable player but also an unbelievable person to have in the dressing room."

World Cup agony

Russo was a key figure during England's run to the World Cup final. 

She netted three goals in seven appearances and also topped the competition's rankings for shots (22) and efforts on target (12).

But the forward could only watch on after Wiegman made the call to sub her at half-time when the Lionesses were already trailing. 

Bright future

As Arsenal skipper Kim Little will tell you, Russo is a class act who will only get better with more experience. 

She said: "I think she brings another element to our game. You can instantly see she brings something different.

"I think her technical ability, close control and timing are great. As a midfielder, I'm excited to play with her."

England may have to do without her tonight but there is likely to be no stopping this Lioness as she hunts for glory with club and country. 

Netherlands, you have been warned.