Alessia Russo admits dealing with speculation over her future has been “tough”, as she closes in on a move to Arsenal.
The England striker has rejected an offer to sign a new contract at Manchester United and will become free agent from Saturday.
Russo is set to join Arsenal in what will be one of the most high-profile moves ever in the women’s game in this country.
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Arsenal had two bids for the 24-year-old rejected in January but are now set to secure her signing.
“Towards the end of the season it was tough and the summer has been tough,” said Russo, when asked about the speculation around her future.
“You don’t like things in the media about you but that’s football and that’s the state of the women’s game.
“I just turned it off, took a break on holiday and completely switched off with all my friends and family.
“Coming back into an environment like this is perfect because you’re competing and all your focus is on England.”
Russo is currently in the England camp as they prepare for next month’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The Lionesses play Portugal in a warm-up friendly in Milton Keynes on Saturday before flying to Australia next week.
Asked how important it is to get her future sorted before then, Russo replied: “I mean, yeah, it’s the state of football. You’ve got to get things sorted.
“There’s no nice time to sort things like that out but now I’m here it’s nice to have a full focus on a massive tournament coming up.”
