ALESSIA RUSSO praised goalkeeper Hannah Hampton for her crucial contribution to England’s 1-0 win in Iceland on Saturday.

England maintained a three-point lead over Spain in their World Cup qualifying group after securing a narrow victory in Reykjavik.

Russo scored the decisive goal in the 21st minute of the Lionesses’ 500th international match.

But Iceland came alive in the second half and it required a number of key saves from Chelsea keeper Hampton to preserve the win on the same day World Cup holders Spain secured a comprehensive 5-0 victory over Ukraine.

“She was amazing, big moments kept us in it,” Russo told thefa.com.

“She made some big saves and sometimes you need someone to step up like that.”

England made the breakthrough when Lauren Hemp raced up the centre of the pitch before laying the ball off to Russo.

It took a nice bit of skill for the Arsenal striker to score, receiving the pass on a pivot before firing her 30th England goal into the far corner.

“It was tough, a game of two halves,” added Russo.

“There were moments in the second half that we will reflect on and learn from but ultimately, we needed three points and this holds us in good stead going into the next camp.

“It was tough, they made it difficult but we are pleased to get three points.”