Eni Aloko: The debate over women’s football pundits has been clarified after the Ian Wright row

Aluko was later criticized online, followed by the posting of two videos in which she again accused Wright of disrespect.

“When I apologized to Ian Wright publicly and privately, he had the opportunity to show the kindness and allyship he has shown to so many other people, and prove that he is the ally he says he is,” she said.

“Unfortunately, my sincerity and humility were met with disrespect.”

TNT Sports anchor Laura Woods then responded to Aluko, calling her comments “harmful.”

She wrote on X: “[The idea that] “A women’s game should be by women for women” is one of the most damaging statements I’ve ever heard. Not only will it drag back women’s sport, it will also drag back the views of women in all forms of the game.

“If you want to grow something, don’t watch it. We want to encourage young boys and men to watch women’s football too, not just young girls and women. And when they see someone like Ian Wright taking it as seriously as he does – they follow suit. That’s how you grow the sport.”

Aluko responded with a statement, saying: “I believe women’s football should prioritize women as the faces of the sport – it’s that simple.

“I believe women should be the dominant force in the women’s game in the same way that men are the dominant force in the men’s game. This means that men should play a more supportive role.

“That’s all I’m saying – and people are completely free to disagree while respecting my right to an opinion as well.”