'Love you always' - Alessia Russo sends touching birthday message to Lionesses team-mate Mary Earps as star goalkeeper turns 31

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.

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: 1maryearps

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.

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.