Ian Wright, the former England striker, is set to make a return to ITV's coverage of the Lionesses' matches. This marks his first appearance since his row with Eni Aluko over opportunities for female pundits in women's football.
Wright will be part of the punditry line-up for England's Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy in Geneva on Tuesday night. The match, which kicks off at 8pm, sees the Lionesses aiming to reach their third consecutive major tournament final.
Joining him on the panel will be former Chelsea boss Emma Hayes, ex-England star Karen Carney and presenter Laura Woods.
Controversy with Eni Aluko
This return comes after a public disagreement with fellow pundit Eni Aluko. In April during BBC Radio 4's Women's Hour, Aluko suggested that Wright was taking away opportunities from female pundits due to his work covering women's football.
Eni Aluko, Former Lionesses player, said:
"I've worked with Ian a long time and, you know, I think he's a brilliant broadcaster, but I think he's aware of just how much he's doing in the women's game. I think he should be aware of that. The fact of the matter is, there is a limited amount of spaces available.
"If we had a situation where there was an equal opportunity in the men's game for broadcasters and coaches that there is in the women's game, it's a free-for-all. But that's not the case. I can't dominate the men's game in the way that, you know, you used Ian as an example."
Her comments sparked considerable backlash on social media leading her to apologize later. However, Wright admitted he could not accept her apology as he addressed social media response. Following this incident, Aluko stepped back from her presenting role at Women’s Football Awards days later but has been part of ITV’s coverage this summer tournament in Switzerland.
England vs Italy
Despite not being initially named as part of last month’s punditry team, Ian Wright is now confirmed for tonight’s clash against Italy. England reached this stage following an exciting penalty shootout victory over Sweden last Thursday and they will be looking to extend their impressive recent record against Italy. The reigning European champions are on a five-match unbeaten run against Italy dating back to 2012.
A victory over the Azzurri would set up a final clash with either Germany or Spain in Basel on Sunday. England beat Germany in the previous Euros final, but suffered a defeat to Spain in the showpiece match at the 2023 Women's World Cup.
