Karen Carney, a former professional footballer and ITV pundit, sparked widespread outrage during the broadcaster's coverage of the World Cup after comparing England women's striker Alessia Russo to men's captain Harry Kane. The incident occurred pitchside at New Jersey Stadium in New York, where Carney was joined by presenter Laura Woods and Russo for England's final group-stage match against Panama on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Carney's Comparison and Russo's Response
During the interview, Carney remarked that Russo's style of play resembles that of Harry Kane, stating: "He's obviously an out-in-out number nine, but likes to come into that midfield and get involved, similar to you." She then asked Russo for insight into how Kane might adapt if the opposition sits deeper. Russo responded: "I wish I played like Harry Kane. He's brilliant. He's a phenomenal player, someone that I love watching. I think he is someone that England rely on but he steps up every time. Playing against a low block, you might have to be patient but I have no doubt he'll step up in a big moment."
Viewer Backlash on Social Media
Viewers at home were furious over the comparison, with many taking to social media to express their displeasure. One fumed: "Karen Carney tells Alicia Russo she plays like Harry Kane. What utter b****x. Thankfully Russo puts her straight. Never known a World Cup so bloody woke and pathetic." Another echoed: "According to Karen Carney, Alessia Russo plays like Harry Kane. Seriously. Why are we being subjected to this rubbish." A third demanded: "Come on @itvfootball get these off. Plays like Harry Kane FFS." A fourth weighed in: "Karen Carney telling Alessia Russo she played like Harry Kane haha I’ve heard it all now. I actually thought Alessia Russo came across really well too." A fifth raged: "The pundit on telly talking to Russo 'you’re like the female version of Harry Kane' in what f***ing way? Jesus Christ why do they push this s**t it’s just embarrassing." Someone else echoed: "Alessia Russo 'quite similar to Harry Kane' - I have quite literally heard it all now."
ITV's World Cup Coverage Team
Carney was announced as part of ITV's punditry team alongside a range of other stars, including Roy Keane, Ian Wright, Gary Neville, Patrick Vieira, Emma Hayes, and others. Woods is leading ITV's coverage with Mark Pougatch and Semra Hunter, bringing fans the live action from studios in Brooklyn, New York.
