Maidstone-born Manchester United forward Alessia Russo reacts after backheel goal in England's Euros semi-final win

Alessia Russo says she reacted instinctively to score her sensational backheel goal in England's semi-final win over Sweden on Tuesday in the Women's Euros.

The Lionesses were already 2-0 ahead at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane when Maidstone’s Russo was introduced after the restart in front of a crowd of 28,624.

After Russo had seen an effort from close range saved by Hedvig Lindahl, the Manchester United forward chased down the ball and produced a backheel which nutmegged the keeper for England’s third.

“Well to be fair, I could have made it a lot easier for myself if I had just scored the first one,” Russo said, speaking to Sky Sports after the game.

“But yeah, it fell nicely. I don’t really remember too much about it.

“I just thought it was the quickest route to get it into the back of the net without having to turn and so I was fortunate enough that it went in.”

It was a goal from substitute Russo which drew plenty of attention on social media and even managed to earn praise from former England striker Ian Wright.

The 23-year-old added: “Well, I didn’t really see it go in so I don’t know how it went in to be honest.

“But yeah, I just celebrated and enjoyed the moment.”

Beth Mead, Lucy Bronze and Fran Kirby were also on target in the 4-0 win for Sarina Wiegman’s side.

Reflecting on the win, Russo said: “Amazing.

“I think it was a tough test, and we knew what Sweden would pose, I think from minute one, Mary [Earps, England’s goalkeeper] and the backline were on it, and switched on. I think that helped massively.

“Then obviously to be clinical in their box is what it’s all about.

“Goals win games and, when Beth took the first one, we could build from there.”

Russo and co will now meet either Germany or France in the