Alessia Russo and fellow England Lionesses star Keira Walsh pick up prizes at Women’s Football Awards

Manchester United forward Alessia Russo was named Player of the Year at the inaugural Women’s Football Awards, with her fellow England star Keira Walsh named International Player of the Year.

Russo and Walsh were key figures in England winning Euro 2022, with the former scoring four goals and the latter being named in the team of the tournament.

Those exploits enabled Russo to beat off competition from the likes of Beth Mead, Sam Kerr and Chloe Kelly to the Player of the Year award.

Walsh, who joined Barcelona in 2022, beat off competition from her fellow Camp Nou star Alexia Putellas, Alex Morgan and Wendie Renard to be named International Player of the Year.

The Young Player of the Year award was shared, with Liverpool’s Missy Bo-Kearns and Chelsea star Lauren James unable to be separated.

Manchester United need Chelsea to slip up in the final game of the Women’s Super League season to win the title, but Marc Skinner’s team have been rewarded for their fine campaign by being named Club of the Year.

England captain Harry Kane was recognised for the support he has given to the women’s game by being named Football Ally of the Year – with West Ham star Declan Rice also recognised for his efforts in promoting the women’s game.

Arsenal legend and former England international Ian Wright was named Women’s Football Champion of the year.

Former England international Karen Carney, who now works as a commentator and broadcaster, was handed a lifetime achievement award.

Eni Aluko, the former England international, hosted the event alongside Jamie Carragher and she paid tribute to the winners.

“Tonight was a highlight of my career,” Aluko said. “This was a first for women’s football and a landmark moment for the game.

“I am so proud to be part of this event. For the first time, women’s football has got the recognition it deserved. It is even more special because the public nominated and voted for these awards.

“To see so many amazing footballers, people, organisations and brands recognised for advancing and improving the game we love was phenomenal.

“From superstar players to the grassroots organisations promoting the game in their own time, we have seen the best of the best being recognised tonight and it has been a dream come true to be part of it alongside Jamie Carragher and the Women’s Football Awards team.”