EMMA HAYES returned to ITV’s World Cup coverage in a completely different set from the controversial “kitchen” studio that sparked an intense sexism row.
And she appeared to take a slight dig on the recent social media storm…
Sign up for the Chelsea newsletter
Thank you!
EMMA HAYES returned to ITV’s World Cup coverage in a completely different set Credit: ITV
This comes after ITV was embroiled in a sexism row involving Hayes during the World Cup Credit: ITV
The broadcasters came under fire from football fans on Wednesday for “demeaning” USA women’s manager Hayes, 49.
During her analysis of England’s opening win over Croatia, the ex-Chelsea boss was made to deliver her tactical breakdown from a kitchen-style set, while the male pundits remained in the main studio.
Viewers immediately questioned the decision, with many asking whether male pundits would ever be expected to analyse matches from a similar setting.
The unusual arrangement quickly sparked a storm on social media, with cruel AI-generated memes placing shopping lists on Hayes’ blackboard as well as adding pots and pans around her.
DON’T BE RASH
Rashford injury fears as England star absent from training since Croatia win
DIN DEAL
Ronaldinho, 46, comes out of retirement to join Italian club in shock transfer
But this time the experienced tactician provided analysis from a much more regular set.
Hayes appeared on screens during the cooling break of Brazil’s World Cup clash against Haiti.
And she appeared to finally address the recent controversy with a somewhat enigmatic statement.
Hayes said: “Let’s focus on the first half in particular. I know that’s a challenge for some of us at home.”
The Camden native has won a record 15 trophies during her 12 years at Chelsea before taking charge of the United States women’s team.
ITV have not publicly commented on the recent criticism.
Hayes appeared to provide analysis during England’s match with Croatia in a kitchen-style set Credit: ITV
Hayes has had a lot of success as manager with USA and Chelsea Credit: Getty Images – Getty
Chief executive of charity Women in Film & TV Katie Bailiff, said ITV’s decision had backfired badly.
Bailiff said: “I initially thought they had cut away to another channel by mistake.
“Emma is a brilliant pundit who deserves the best platform.
“It was an ill-conceived, damaging creative decision.”
World Cup 2026 – all the info
LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!
This year’s World Cup is like no other as a record-breaking 48 nations compete to lift football’s biggest prize.
England manager Thomas Tuchel is hoping to finally bring football home after a 60-year drought.
But footballing legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have other plans in what will likely be their final World Cup appearance.
JattvibeSport have got everything you need for the huge tournament
LATEST NEWS
KEY INFO
VIDEO
TIPS AND BETTING
If you click a link in this article, we will earn affiliate revenue.
