Eni Aluko accused Arsenal legend Ian Wright of blocking opportunities for women experts in women football.
The former British Nigerian footballer, 38, targeted Wright, who has been a major advocate for women’s competition.
The former England and Chelsea striker spoke on Women’s Time on Radio 4: “I’ve been working with Ian for a long time and, I think he’s a great broadcaster, but I think he knows the amount of work he’s working in the women’s game. I think he should be aware of that.”
‘The fact is, there is a limited amount of space available. If we have a situation where there is an equal opportunity in the men’s game that provides broadcasters and coaches with opportunities in the women’s game, then all are free.
“But that’s not the case. I can’t rule the man’s game in the way you used Ian as an example.
When asked to clarify if she thought Wright, 61, was wrong to be the forefront of women’s football reports, Aluko added: “I don’t know it’s wrong, but I think we need to realize that we need to make sure women are not blocked from promoting the broadcast in women’s games.
“It’s still new, it’s still growing. There are a lot of opportunities, and I think men need to be aware of that.
“Men need to realize, you know, you’re in a growing movement, a movement for women growing up, and we don’t always have those opportunities, so it’s about awareness and people who support other women through that pathway.”
Wright launched a podcast about the women’s game with Steph Houghton last year and talked regularly with Kelly Cates on the BBC.
Wright has previously said in support of female experts who have suffered abuse in the past, insisting on “deserving” their role and saying he is “embarrassing” about the way sulfuric acid is.
Aluko is one of the female experts who are targeting along with Alex Scott and Karen Carney.
