ITV have thrown its support behind Ian Wright in a recent punditry controversy sparked by Eni Aluko’s comments. The former England Women’s star suggested that Wright should be conscious of the amount of punditry he undertakes in women’s football, to ensure “women are not being blocked from having a pathway into broadcasting in the women’s game.”
Aluko faced immense backlash for her comments and subsequently issued an apology on social media. However, Wright, who is celebrated for his advocacy of women’s football, responded with an Instagram video stating he could not accept her apology. The two have previously collaborated as pundits for ITV, covering both England Men’s and Women’s matches. In light of the dispute, ITV has now made its position clear.
A spokesperson for the network told the Guardian: “Ian’s standing in the sport is beyond question,” adding, “As one of the UK’s most respected and much-loved footballers and sporting broadcasters, with a career spanning nearly four decades, Ian is an incredible advocate, ally and brilliant broadcaster of women’s football from a grassroots level as well as at the highest international competitions.”
This incident has drawn attention to ITV’s punditry team as they gear up for a significant summer of international football. ITV holds exclusive live rights to broadcast one England Men’s World Cup qualifier and a friendly match in June, and will also share live coverage with the BBC for the Lionesses’ campaign to retain the Women’s European Championship title in Switzerland.
Wright, the former Arsenal striker, is set to feature prominently in the Euro qualifiers and has been confirmed as part of ITV’s punditry team for next month’s FA Cup final, where his old club, Crystal Palace, will take on Manchester City at Wembley.
Aluko issued an apology stating: “In my interview with Woman’s Hour this week, I was trying to make a broader point about the limited opportunities for women in football – whether that’s in coaching, broadcasting or commercial space – and the importance of creating more space for women to thrive on and off the pitch.
“But it was wrong for Ian’s name to be raised in that conversation, and for that I sincerely apologise. I’ve known and worked with Ian for many years and have nothing but love and respect for him.”
Reacting to her apology, Wright responded: “I’ve got to say I’m very disappointed by what Eni has said. She knows how I’ve helped her, supported her publicly.
“And I know the previous conversations she’s had with me and my management. So, for me, I’ve seen your apology on social media, but I can’t accept it. But I also want to move on from it.”
Content Source: www.express.co.uk