Football broadcaster Eni Aluko has pulled out of a major job just days after her public falling out with fellow pundit Ian Wright.
Former Chelsea and England star Aluko recently shocked fans when she claimed that Wright was blocking opportunities for female pundits in women's football.
Although she later apologised, the comments were immediately met with backlash both from fans and from Wright himself, who issued a statement shortly after saying that he did not accept Aluko's apology.
Advert
And now, Aluko has released an official statement to confirmed that she has decided to step away from a major job for one specific reason.
Speaking in a statement, the 38-year-old confirmed that she was stepping down from her role as host of the upcoming Women's Football awards.
Instead, Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher will host the awards evening, which is set to take place in London on 1 May.
Advert
Aluko's statement read: "The Women's Football Awards hold a special place in my heart.
"It was the first time an event of this scale was created solely to celebrate the incredible achievements in women's football, and I'm so proud to have been part of it since the beginning.'
"However, I've decided to take a step back from being part of the hosting lineup this year.
"I don't want anything to deflect from the joy, recognition, and celebration that this event is all about.
Advert
"This event belongs to the players, coaches, fans, and everyone who has worked tirelessly to elevate the women's game.
"The awards will be hosted in the very capable hands of Gabby and Jamie, who I know will bring their passion and energy to the stage.
"I love women's football deeply, I'm proud of how far we've come, and I'll absolutely be back involved in the future."
Advert
The Women's Football Awards started in 2023 to reflect and commemorate that massive growth of the women's game in recent years.
Awards include the player of the year, manager of the year and the lifetime achievement award, with players like Ella Toone, Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw and Lauren James all nominated.
But Aluko feels that her recent controversy with Wright may distract from the importance of the awards, leading to her deciding to step away as host for at least this year's awards.
Topics: Ian Wright, Womens Football
Ben McCrum