Ian Wright rejects apology from Eni Aluko after punditry comments | OneFootball

Ian Wright has admitted he was “very disappointed” about Eni Aluko’s recent comments regarding his involvement in women’s football and says he “can’t accept” her apology.

In an interview this week, Aluko claimed men such as Wright “should be aware” of the opportunities they take in the women’s game, claiming female broadcasters should not be “blocked” from having a pathway. On BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, the former England forward said: “I’ve worked with Ian a long time and, you know, I think he’s a brilliant broadcaster. But I think he’s aware of just how much he’s doing in the women’s game. I think he should be aware of that.”

After receiving backlash and scrutiny for her comments, Aluko issued a social media apology to Wright on Friday. She wrote on Instagram: “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.”

Despite seeing Aluko’s apology, Wright has rejected it. The former Arsenal striker claims everyone needs to help fix the “systemic challenges” in women’s football.

He said on Instagram: “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.”

Wright continued: “But the thing about where the women’s game is, it can’t be about individuals like me. It has to be about the collective. And because of the past, we know that men blocked the women’s game for 50 years. Because of the past the game has serious systemic challenges and it’s going to take everyone to help fix it. So for me, I’m always going to give back to the game that’s given me so much.”

The 61-year-old concluded by thanking fans for their support throughout an emotional week.

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