Eni Aluko quits role after claim she was 'traumatised' by Ian Wright argument

Eni Aluko has announced that she will not be co-hosting the Women's Football Awards on Thursday night amid the ongoing fallout from her controversial comments about Ian Wright

Eni Aluko has quit her presenting role

Eni Aluko has quit as host of the Women's Football Awards following her comments made about Ian Wright.

Aluko has faced major backlash from comments she made about Wright, accusing him of 'blocking opportunities for women' in women's football. She later apologised for her comments, but Wright was unimpressed by her accusation and chose not to accept her apology.

Following the backlash, Aluko has announced she will not co-host the prestigious Women's Football Awards on Thursday night alongside Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher.

In a statement, she said: "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. 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. 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 Logan and Jamie Carragher, 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."

Aluko made the comments about Wright in a recent interview with BBC Radio 4, where she said that Wright's presence as a pundit and commentator on women's football was hindering her and other female pundits.

Aluko clarified her stance by saying: "I was trying to make a broader point about the limited opportunities for women in football, whether that's in coaching, broadcasting or commercial spaces, 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."

Aluko's mum claimed the former England international has been left 'traumatised' by the public backlash. Meanwhile, ITV have put their support behind Wright, saying that his 'standing in the sport is beyond question'.