Emery’s 100th victory in charge came on the back of a determined display at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
Russell is leading the drivers’ standings for the first time in his career.
The Northern Irishman pulled out of the Arnold Palmer Invitational after experiencing back spasms.
Head coach Steve Borthwick has remained loyal to the overhauled backline that misfired against Italy.
The domestic season gets under way on April 3.