Former footballer and TV pundit, Joey Barton, has been heavily criticized for making sexist remarks about former England player, Eni Aluko. Barton took to social media to critique Aluko’s punditry skills and insinuated that she lacks knowledge about men’s football. This has sparked widespread outrage within the football community, with many condemning Barton’s comments as sexist and unjust.
During an appearance on Threesixtytv, an urban sports media and distribution company, Barton discussed the issue of harassment towards women in football broadcasting and singled out Aluko in a negative manner. His remarks have been widely condemned, with many highlighting the underlying sexist nature of his comments. Barton’s derogatory comments have been viewed as an attempt to marginalize women within the sport, resulting in a significant backlash against him.
This incident is not the first time Barton has made controversial comments about Aluko. In the past, he likened her and another female pundit, Lucy Ward, to notorious serial killers Fred and Rose West. His comments were heavily criticized as distasteful and inappropriate, yet Barton declined to apologize and instead launched into another offensive tirade, this time comparing Aluko to communist dictators Joseph Stalin and Pol Pot.
Aluko herself has spoken out about the abuse she has endured as a consequence of her work within the football industry. In a video posted on her Instagram account, she revealed that she had been targeted with online abuse and even feared for her safety. Aluko’s decision to leave the UK and relocate abroad due to the harassment she faced has drawn attention to the treatment of women within football. The online abuse of women working in football has been brought to the forefront as a significant issue that could potentially lead to tragic consequences if left unaddressed.
As a former England player with over 100 international appearances, Aluko has earned respect for her contributions to the sport. Her wealth of experience and expertise make her a highly qualified pundit, and Barton’s dismissive comments have been widely condemned. It is crucial to confront and challenge the sexist attitudes that undermine the credibility and professionalism of women in football.
The football community bears a responsibility to cultivate an inclusive and respectful environment for all individuals involved in the sport. Sexism and harassment have no place in football, and it is imperative that individuals such as Joey Barton are held accountable for their harmful remarks. The backlash against Barton’s comments reflects a collective rejection of sexism in football and a demand for greater respect and equality within the industry.
The controversy surrounding Joey Barton’s remarks serves as a reminder of the obstacles that women encounter within the football industry and the significance of promoting diversity and inclusion. It is vital to support and uplift women in football and to challenge those who seek to undermine and disparage their contributions. As the football community continues to address issues of sexism and discrimination, it is essential to strive towards a more equitable and respectful environment for all individuals involved in the sport.