Eni Aluko Slams Ian Wright
Eni Aluko has spoken out against Ian Wright’s frequent appearances in women’s football punditry, claiming that his dominance in the space is preventing female broadcasters from progressing. Despite acknowledging Wright’s longstanding support for the women’s game, Aluko suggested that his front-and-centre role is creating barriers rather than breaking them down.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, Aluko said, “I’ve worked with Ian a long time and I think he’s a fantastic broadcaster. But I also think he’s aware of how much he’s involved in the women’s game, and maybe it’s time to reflect on that.”
“Limited Opportunities” for Women in Broadcasting
Aluko’s main concern revolves around the finite number of opportunities in sports news and punditry, particularly within women’s football. She pointed out that while men have greater freedom and flexibility to work across both men’s and women’s football, women don’t have the same access in the men’s game.
“There’s a limit to how many seats are available. If there were equal opportunities in the men’s game, it would be different. But I can’t dominate men’s football in the way Ian Wright does in the women’s game,” she explained.
Aluko’s comments were not aimed at attacking Wright personally but rather calling attention to the broader systemic imbalance.
Calling for Greater Awareness from Male Pundits
When asked if it was wrong for Ian Wright to cover women’s football, Aluko didn’t give a direct yes or no. Instead, she emphasized the need for male broadcasters to be more conscious of the impact their presence has on the careers of women in the industry.
“This is a growing sport. Women haven’t always had these chances. So it’s about making space, being aware, and helping others up the ladder. Men like Ian Wright need to be aware they’re entering a space that’s still developing,” she added.
Aluko’s Career and Ongoing Legal Battle
Aluko also highlighted how speaking out has come at a cost. Despite being a seasoned pundit for over a decade, she noted a sharp decline in her on-screen appearances — from 44 in 2023 to just 27 last year. “That’s not a feeling, that’s a fact,” she said, pointing to a broader issue where women face professional setbacks for voicing concerns.
In addition, Aluko is currently involved in a libel case against Joey Barton over defamatory remarks he made on social media. A judge recently ruled that Barton’s comments had a defamatory meaning, bolstering Aluko’s case.
She reflected on the broader implications of her situation: “This happens across industries. Women stand up for themselves and their careers suffer. We’re still competing for a couple of seats at the table, even with presenters included. That needs to change.”
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