Former England footballer Eni Aluko has withdrawn from hosting the Women's Football Awards amid ongoing controversy over comments she made about Ian Wright, according to reports.
The former Chelsea star was due to present the ceremony alongside Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher but has now chosen to step away.
Her decision comes after she accused Wright of "blocking opportunities for women" in football during a BBC Radio 4 appearance.
The fallout has continued despite Aluko's subsequent apology, with Wright declining to accept it and ITV issuing a statement supporting the Arsenal legend.
Former England footballer Eni Aluko has withdrawn from hosting the Women's Football Awards amid ongoing controversy over comments she made about Ian Wright
PA
Aluko made her controversial comments during an appearance on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour, where she claimed Wright was hampering opportunities for female pundits.
Her remarks sparked immediate backlash from across the football community.
Aluko, who won 105 caps for England, issued an apology to Wright on Friday, acknowledging his contributions to women's football.
"Ian Wright is a brilliant broadcaster and role model whose support for the women's game has been significant," she said in her statement.
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She explained she was attempting to make "a broader point about the limited opportunities for women in football" but admitted "it was wrong for Ian's name to be raised in that conversation."
"For that I sincerely apologise," Aluko added, noting her long professional relationship with Wright.
Wright, however, rejected Aluko's apology in an impassioned video shared on Instagram.
"I'm very disappointed about what Eni has said, she knows how I've helped her, supported her publicly," the former Arsenal striker said.
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"I've seen the apology on social media, but I can't accept it, but I also want to move on."
Wright emphasised that women's football "isn't about me - it has to be about the collective."
He also acknowledged men's historical responsibility, noting: "We men are the ones that banned women's football for 50 years."
ITV has since weighed in on the controversy with a strong statement supporting Wright.
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Against this backdrop, Aluko announced her withdrawal from hosting duties at the London ceremony, reports the Daily Mail.
"I don't want anything to deflect from the joy, recognition, and celebration that this event is all about," Aluko said in a statement released on Tuesday.
"This event belongs to the players, coaches, fans, and everyone who has worked tirelessly to elevate the women's game."
Eni Aluko has faced a big backlash since criticising Ian Wright
GettyShe confirmed the awards would now be hosted by Logan and Carragher.
Following the controversy, Aluko's photograph has been removed from the Women's Football Awards publicity material.
The event's promotional materials now feature only Logan and Carragher as the row continues to escalate.
