Arsenal forward Alessia Russo shared a heartwarming birthday message to England team-mate Mary Earps after the Manchester United goalkeeper turned 31.
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Earps celebrated birthday on ThursdayReceives countless messages from fellow football starsRusso shares heartwarming collage for Man Utd 'keeperWHAT HAPPENED?
The Lionesses goalkeeping icon celebrated her birthday on Thursday and, naturally, received countless well-wishes from team-mates, past and present. One of those was Russo, who remains Earps' international colleague but used to be her club team-mate at United. As such, the Arsenal forward has a collection of touching photos with the England shot stopper, which she shared in a collage to celebrate her birthday.
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Russo posted her collage on her Instagram story, which Earps reposted, alongside the words: "Happy birthday to my coffee partner and my big sis. Love you always mazza. You're the best."
IG: 1maryearpsGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
United have, perhaps unsurprisingly, faltered since Russo's departure in the summer, with Earps and Co a whopping 12 points off the pace in the WSL title race, and nine points off the Gunners in the last remaining European spot. Despite clearly missing former team-mate Earps, Russo has not looked back as her six goals and three assists in 14 league appearances has catapulted her side to within three points off joint-leaders Chelsea and Manchester City.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR RUSSO & EARPS?
Russo and Arsenal are next in action in a crunch WSL clash against reigning champions Chelsea next Friday. Earps' United side, meanwhile, are in action this Saturday when they play Brighton for a place in the FA Women's Cup semi-finals.