ITV host Laura Woods hits back at Des Lynam over ‘weird’ criticism | Football

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The veteran broadcaster accused Woods of being ‘overfamiliar’ with Ian Wright (Getty / ITV)

ITV World Cup host Laura Woods has hit back at Des Lynam over his ‘weird’ criticism of her presenting style after he claimed her ‘over-familiarity’ with Ian Wright ‘made him wince’.

The veteran broadcaster was branded ‘Dinosaur Des’ on social media after he wrote an article in which he took umbrage with Woods’ rapport with Wright, claiming it made him feel ‘uncomfortable’.

Writing in his column for The Telegraph, the 80-year-old said: ‘She called Ian Wright ‘Wrighty’ which sounds comfortable coming from the likes of Gary Lineker but it made me slightly wince.

‘I may be wrong and perhaps they are close friends but the over-familiarity made me a touch uncomfortable.

‘The other pundits were Gary Neville and the former Dutch international Nigel de Jong. Laura refrained from calling them Gaz or Nige.’

Lynam’s strange comment was jumped upon on social media, with many pointing out that Woods and Wright – who are both big Arsenal fans – have worked extensively together over the years, particularly on ITV’s women’s football coverage.

ITV presenter Laura Woods hits back at Des Lynam over 'weird' criticism

Woods fronted ITV’s coverage of Netherlands vs Senegal (Picture: ITV)

Now Woods has had her say, clapping back at Lynam on Twitter and suggesting that her role as a presenter was rather insignificant compared to the discussions that took place about the controversies surrounding the World Cup being held in Qatar.

Responding to the article, she tweeted: ‘Jeez. Of all the things covered this is what made Des wince?’

When one follower described Lynam’s comments as sexist, Woods added: ‘Found it very weird.’

Former Sky Sports presenter Woods received plenty of support on social media, with one person writing: ‘What a strange thing to take away from that! The fact Laura Woods and Ian Wright work together a lot on ITV women’s football coverage probably suggests they are good friends.

‘Perhaps some research for Mr Lynam before doing a piece really not fit for The Telegraph! Pathetic.’

Reacting to making her World Cup bow, Woods wrote on Instagram: ‘My first World Cup match as a presenter tonight and couldn’t have asked for better company. Thanks to the ITV football family for having faith in me.’


MORE : ‘It made me wince’ – Des Lynam takes bizarre pop at Laura Woods’ World Cup presenting


MORE : Graeme Souness and Roy Keane have heated row as they argue over Argentina penalty

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