Former England international and football pundit Eni Aluko has expressed her pride and relief after Joey Barton was found guilty of sending grossly offensive posts about her and other broadcasters on social media.
The ex-Manchester City and Newcastle midfielder was convicted last Friday at Liverpool Crown Court, where the jury ruled that Barton had “crossed the line between free speech and a crime” with six posts he made on X (formerly Twitter) targeting Aluko, fellow football pundit Lucy Ward, and broadcaster Jeremy Vine.
A Sense of Relief for Eni Aluko
Speaking to the PA news agency following the verdict, Aluko admitted she felt a huge sense of closure after what she described as a “difficult chapter” in her life.
“I feel great, I feel a sense of relief that the difficult chapter is all over,” Aluko said.
“I have always been very clear about making sure there are consequences for that type of conduct online, because it is bullying.
“It was never going to be something I tolerated. I am very proud of being able to stand up to that and show that’s not something we are going to tolerate in the UK and in society.”
Joey Barton Found Guilty of Online Abuse
The court found Barton guilty on six counts of sending grossly offensive messages aimed at Aluko and others. However, he was cleared of another six charges of sending offensive communications with the intent to cause distress or anxiety.
He will be sentenced on December 8, with the conviction marking another high-profile example of the growing issue of online abuse and cyberbullying in sport.
Standing Up Against Online Harassment
Aluko, who has been a vocal advocate for equality and respect in football, said that dealing with public criticism can be tough, but standing up for one’s values is essential.
“Sometimes it can be difficult because sometimes you want to be left alone without all the scrutiny of everything you say,” she explained.
“I’m a human being and I’m not perfect. I don’t always get it right, but I think what you can always do in the public eye is stand by your values and stand up for what you believe in.
“That’s what I’ve tried to do in what’s been a difficult case, and I hope moving forward people recognise that online abuse, bullying, sexism, racism, we’re not going to tolerate it, we’re not going to have it in a civilised, tolerant, inclusive society and inclusive sport.”
A Positive Moment for Eni Aluko
Despite the emotional toll of the trial, Aluko found reason to celebrate as she was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the National Football Museum in Manchester.
The 38-year-old, who earned 104 England caps and enjoyed a successful club career with Chelsea and Juventus, was honoured for her outstanding achievements and her impact on the women’s game.
“There is always good news around the corner, and to come out of that last week, a difficult week that ended well, and to be here now being recognised, I am very happy and very pleased,” she said.
“It shows you will go through things in life that are difficult, but it shapes you. You come out the other end of it and people recognise you for how you stood up and how you stood by your principles and values.”
Ending on an optimistic note, Aluko added: “I feel honoured. It’s a big recognition for the journey and I just want to keep doing the honour justice.”
Aluko’s story is more than just a legal victory; it’s a reminder of the importance of tackling online hate, social media abuse, and sexism in sport. Her resilience sends a clear message that no one, regardless of their public status, should have to endure targeted harassment.
As the football world continues to address issues of equality and respect, Eni Aluko’s response to Joey Barton’s conviction stands as a powerful example of courage and integrity, both on and off the pitch.
