Chelsea forward, Eni Aluko has been praised by Women in Football for her “immense courage” and “commitment to unearthing the truth” as England Women’s goalkeeping coach Lee Kendall faces a Football Association (FA) investigation after being accused of repeatedly addressing her in a Caribbean accent.
What happened:
Aluko told a Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee hearing into her allegations of bullying and racism that the England women’s goalkeeping coach put on the accent when speaking to her.
After that, an FA statement said, “The FA can confirm it is investigating England Women goalkeeping coach Lee Kendall following new evidence that came to light on Wednesday, alleging unacceptable behaviour towards Eniola Aluko during an England camp.”
In a statement, Women in Football said: “We applaud her commitment to unearthing the truth, her fortitude throughout and her vision to make football a better place for others.
“It is appalling that her efforts saw a stellar playing career derailed by the very system that was meant to protect her.
“For Women in Football, now in our 10th year, this is an all-too-familiar narrative for female whistleblowers and victims of discrimination in the football industry.”
The organisation said a survey had shown that more than 60 percent of women had witnessed sexism in the workplace but fewer than one in 10 would report it because of fears they would not be taken seriously.
It urged the FA to “create meaningful change” by making “a heartfelt commitment to bold action within the governing body.”
Other reactions:
The Equality and Human Rights Commission warned that the FA “risks losing public confidence” over its handling of the situation.
In a statement, executive director Alastair Pringle said: “If players of all races, religions and backgrounds do not feel supported and protected, football cannot be considered a sport for all.
“The FA risks losing public confidence if it does not eradicate discrimination and forge an open and transparent culture to demonstrate that athletes’ well-being is prioritised.”
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