John Russell (born 18 May 1985) is an Irish former professional footballer and current manager of Sligo Rovers in the League of Ireland Premier Division.

On 20 January 2012, Russell signed for Dublin side St Patrick's Athletic and was giving the number 18 jersey.

Buckley spoke to stpatsfc.com about the signing the Galway native:"John is a very exciting, attacking player who will fit in with the way we will play this season.

[8][9] Russell picked up the RTÉ Man of the Match award for his superb assist of Sean O'Connor's goal and an excellent energetic performance away to his old club Sligo Rovers.

[10] Russell missed a penalty in a Europa League game against NK Široki Brijeg from Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Stadion Pecara, but just 2 minutes later he set up Christy Fagan to open the scoring.

[11] Fagan returned the favour in the second leg when he set Russell up to open the scoring in a 2–1 after extra-time to earn a tie with German club Hannover 96.