Alessia Russo: What is the best position for an Arsenal striker?

Rousseau has two assists in her eight Champions League appearances, contributing to a goal per game ratio of 1.13, behind Bayern Munich’s Clara Puhl (1.5) and Barcelona’s double Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas (1.17), who have both played fewer matches.

Rousseau believes she has benefited from the extra space in the revamped Champions League this season, where she believes teams are more prepared to attack.

“You play against champions from other countries and they play with less fear,” she said. “Teams give it a really good chance.”

Perhaps this is why she was able to do the cleaning work in Europe – and why she spent 97% of her minutes working in this central role.

As for England, coach Sarina Wigman is clear on how to deploy Rousseau.

“She can play both, and it’s good to have options, but for us the way we have prepared her, the best position for her is as a number nine,” Wegman said before the 2-0 win over Iceland this month.

For England at the European Championship last summer, Rousseau’s role was more central. She spent 14% of her time in the opposition penalty area, sniffing out chances and occupying the heart of the defence.

Two goals and three assists came in that tournament, behind only Boutilas in terms of total goal contributions.

“As a 9, you obviously play higher up, in and around the box, reacting to instincts and small margins around the box,” Rousseau said.

“You are also the catalyst for the press and the game plan out of possession starts with you.”