Young Harpenden Colts players were paid a surprise visit at their latest training session - Arsenal and England striker Alessia Russo.
She was at Harpenden Town's Rothamsted Park ground where Colts train to mark the launch of a new trading card collection from Panini.
The Barclays Women’s Super League Adrenalyn XL collection will feature the first-ever Barclays WSL Golden Ballers, which include Manchester United’s Grace Clinton and Chelsea’s Lauren James.
The collection also includes rising star, debut and game changer categories with breakthrough talents Manuela Pavi (West Ham) and Lenna Gunning-Williams (Spurs).
Russo, in the collection herself as a golden baller, joined the squad for a session that included finishing and ball control drills, ending with an opportunity to take a penalty against England’s leading striker.
It was followed by questions from the Colts before numerous photographs and autographs from Russo.
"Panini is playing a massive part in that growth by creating albums like this one. The popularity of the albums is evidence that there is real demand for women’s football products, which is so inspiring for the future of women’s football.
"For me personally, to be recognised as a Golden Baller in the collection is a really proud moment.
“I know the cards will be popular with my team-mates and I can’t wait to see the girls get their hands on them at the training ground.
"There will be a few swaps going on for sure."
Katie Gritt, head of marketing for sport at Panini added: "Panini is all about bringing people together and we love to see fans swapping their Barclays WSL or league collectables at games to complete their collections.
"There will be product giveaways by all Barclays WSL clubs at matches during March to support the launch and we love being able to support the growth of the women’s game through our collections, bringing fans closer to the game off the pitch.”
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