Dispute escalates between Eni Aluko and Laura Woods
Former England international Eni Aluko has accused presenter Laura Woods of “gaslighting” her amid a public dispute concerning ITV’s pundit selections for the Women’s Euros, reports BritPanorama.
The disagreement revolves around Aluko’s criticism of ITV’s decision to exclude her and fellow former Lioness Farah Williams from the coverage of last summer’s Euro final. Aluko contends that their extensive experience merits inclusion in such significant broadcasts.
Woods, who presents for both ITV and TNT Sports, responded to Aluko’s remarks through a series of posts on social media, igniting a verbal exchange that has involved other prominent media figures. Aluko further stirred the pot by suggesting that male pundits should occupy supportive roles in women’s football coverage rather than take the lead.
Aluko’s call for change in the presentation of women’s football has sparked mixed reactions. She has expressed a belief that female experts should have priority over their male counterparts in television settings, arguing for a “restructuring” of the pundit panel.
This escalating row gained further traction when Aluko appeared on talkSPORT, where she faced a pointed confrontation with the station’s host, Simon Jordan. During the exchange, Jordan delivered a scathing critique of Aluko’s credentials, asserting, “I don’t think you are particularly enlightening, illuminating, engaging or charismatic.”
Jordan’s critique extended to suggestions that diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives have unduly assisted Aluko’s broadcasting career. Aluko countered that she and Woods had previously maintained a close working relationship, making the public nature of their dispute particularly surprising. “Laura was actually one of the people I would consistently go to. We got on like a house on fire,” she noted.
As the dispute continues to unfold, the conversation surrounding women’s football coverage remains a significant topic, particularly regarding the balance of representation within sports media. Aluko has made it clear that she believes women should be the primary faces of women’s sport, advocating for a greater presence of female insights in punditry roles.
The ongoing discussion highlights a crucial moment for both representation and accountability within sports broadcasting, a reminder of the shifting dynamics as advocates for change continue to make their voices heard.
