Eni Aluko quits 'special' Women's Football Awards job & issues new statement after public row with Arsenal legend Ian Wright

Aluko hit the headlines after accusing Wright of blocking opportunities for female pundits. The former Lionesses star has since said sorry to the Arsenal legend, but he has refused to accept the apology and has spoken of his "disappointment" at Aluko's comments. Aluko has now issued a fresh statement and confirmed her decision to step down from the forthcoming event.

Aluko said in a statement: "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 Logan and Jamie Carragher, 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."

Wright has been backed in the war of words by ITV, throwing Aluko's punditry career into doubt. The 38-year-old will also not appear on TNT's coverage of Chelsea's Europa Conference League clash with Djurgarden on Thursday, despite being part of the team for the quarter-final clash, according to the Daily Mail.

Aluko's punditry career certainly appears in the balance ahead of a big summer for women's football. The final game of the season sees Barcelona take on Arsenal in the Women's Champions League final, before thoughts switch to the 2025 European Championship which will be held in Switzerland.