He began his career in the Premier League with Middlesbrough although he failed to make a first team appearance but would notably go on to have three spells with Darlington between 2002 and 2012.

Russell was born in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire and signed as a professional on 7 July 2000 for his hometown team after progressing through their youth system.

In the opening game of the 2004–05 season Russell made his mark with a superb performance which earned him the man of the match.

[5] In July 2007 he signed for Rochdale, making his first start for the club in the Football League Trophy second round tie against Bury in October 2007.

[6] Following an injury to regular keeper James Spencer, Russell was next called upon in the FA Cup defeat at Southend United.

After being released by Rochdale at the end of the season,[10] Russell signed for Conference National side Wrexham after impressing on trial.

[18] A run of 144 consecutive league appearances for Forest Green was brought to an end on 21 February 2015 when he was replaced by Steve Arnold for a 3–0 win over AFC Telford United.

[20] In June 2015, Russell joined National League side Gateshead, returning to a club where over a decade earlier he had spent time on loan.

[28] Russell retired from playing at the end of the 2020–21 season but remained Paul Hurst's first team goalkeeping coach.