Eni Aluko has withdrawn from her hosting role at the Women`s Football Awards following her public disagreement with Ian Wright.
Last week, the former England international made comments regarding Wright`s work as a pundit in women`s football.
On BBC Radio 4, Aluko accused Wright of “blocking” opportunities for women in football punditry.
Aluko, a former Lioness, apologised for her remarks, but Wright publicly refused to accept the apology in a powerful Instagram video.
The Arsenal icon urged the public to “move on” from the incident, yet the controversy has continued.
ITV, where both Aluko and Wright work, recently issued a strong statement backing the former striker.
Now, Aluko has announced she is withdrawing from her hosting duties at the upcoming end-of-season awards on Thursday.
The 37-year-old was scheduled to co-host the London ceremony with Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher.
She stated that she did not want the ongoing media attention surrounding her to “deflect” from the event`s celebration.
In her Instagram statement, Aluko wrote: “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, and 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 and Jamie, 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`s image has since been removed from the event`s promotional materials, which now only show Logan and Carragher.
Aluko`s future at ITV, where Wright is a widely respected figure, is reportedly under scrutiny following the controversy.
For many years, Wright has been a strong supporter and advocate for the women`s game, demonstrating his commitment in various ways.
He notably made a significant gesture for Stoke City defender Kayleigh McDonald, who ruptured her ACL and had to start a GoFundMe campaign for surgery funds after her club initially refused to cover the costs.
Stoke eventually reversed their decision, reportedly thanks in large part to Wright, who funded a sports lawyer to support McDonald`s case.
Furthermore, when the club stopped funding her rehabilitation late last year, Wright personally covered the costs.
McDonald revealed that her rehabilitation expenses were approximately £1,700 per month.
