Kent-born football ace Alessia Russo swapped goals for gowns as she received an honorary doctorate from Canterbury Christ Church University.

Russo, who was born in Maidstone, played a key part in last summer's European Championships win, scoring four goals as the Lionesses went on to secure their first major title.

And in a service at Canterbury Cathedral yesterday (Friday), the 23-year-old, who plays for Manchester United, was made an honorary doctor of the university for her services to sport.

In a post on social media, Christ Church said: "We’re so pleased to welcome Alessia into our university family after her incredible professional achievements, bringing it home with the Lionesses at the Euros and for being such an inspiration to girls and women in sport.”

In another post, Manchester United were keen to show off their star's achievement.

Fans and well-wishers were quick to send congratulations, with the football team's tweet being liked more than 7,000 times.

One fan tweeted: “Congratulations! As an alumni I’m very proud to see CCCU recognise women’s sporting successes!"

Another praised her acceptance speech, calling it “fabulous, powerful, honest, engaging and motivating”.

“Can’t wait to see what the next chapter of her life holds for her.” they added.

Sportswear giant Adidas also sent its congratulations, tweeting: “Congratulations on your Honorary Doctorate! Well deserved.”

The honour from CCCU is the latest in a growing list of achievements for Russo as her career continues to reach new heights.

Earlier this month, she was nominated for the prestigious FIFA Puskas award following her cheeky backheeled finish against Sweden at last years Euros.

The prize, which celebrates the most aesthetically pleasing goal of the year, has previously been won by legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

And following the Lionesses victory in the summer, Maidstone Borough Council announced plans to honour the football ace for her role in the success.

Alessia, who grew up in the County Town, will be invited to open the new Mote Park cafe and visitor centre, with a room in the facility to be named after her.

At the time, mayor Cllr Derek Mortimer sung her praises, saying: "Maidstone Borough Council is delighted to be able to officially recognise Alessia with this Civic Recognition at the new Mote Park Visitor Centre.

"We are very much looking forward to her opening this state-of-the-art facility which will be so important to our beautiful park. Well done Alessia – everyone in Maidstone is so proud of you.”