Former England Women’s Football star, Enio Aluko has said that she has “acknowledged and accepted” former international teammate, Nikita Parris’ apology for a controversial goal celebration in 2017.
The international striker described celebrating with the then-England coach, Mark Sampson, who was accused of using discriminating language to Aluko, as “thoughtless”.
In response, on her social media platform, Eni wrote: ‘Although I’m yet to speak with Nikita, I acknowledge and accept this apology.
‘Thanks.
‘Black women should always strive for unity not division.’
Aluka, now Sporting Director of Aston Villa Women’s football team, added: “During the current climate, Nikita leads the way for the England Women’s football team in acknowledging and addressing past individual and collective actions with regards to racism”.
After scoring a goal against Russia, Parris, 26, pointedly ran to Sampson to celebrate in their 6-0 World Cup qualifying victory in 2017.
The former Manchester City player who now plays in France for Lyon wrote on social media: ‘At the time I focussed more on what I believed was showing unity when really it did nothing of the sort. It showed a lack of empathy, understanding and ignorance by singling out a voice that needed an ear to listen and a support system to help’.
In the aftermath, Eni said that Parris’ celebrations were not respectful considering the number of complaints against the former manager at the time.
The English Football Association apologised to the 102-capped Alluko for racially discriminatory remarks made by Sampson after a third investigation into his behaviour, but cleared him of bullying accusations.
