 Born in Mile End, Russell began his career as a youth player at Norwich City making his debut on the last day of the 1997–98 season in a 1–0 victory against Reading.He made 13 appearances in 1998–99 before establishing himself in the first team in 1999–2000.In April 2000, Norwich manager Bruce Rioch was replaced by Bryan Hamilton whose old school style of management made it a tough environment for Russell to develop.