World Cup pundit 'suspended' after branding Jeremy Doku 'disgusting' for returning home for birth
French television presenter France Pierron has reportedly been removed from her presenting duties on L'Equipe's Monday programme following a fierce backlash over her criticism of Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku.The 24-year-old Belgium international has stated his intention to fly home for the birth of his first child, expected during the second week of July, which could coincide with World Cup quarter-final fixtures.Pierron sparked outrage on Friday's edition of L'Equipe de Choc when she branded Doku's decision "disgusting" and declared fathers "useless" during childbirth.According to French journalist Clement Garin, the broadcaster has stood Pierron down from today's show. L'Equipe has issued a statement distancing itself from her remarks, which provoked widespread condemnation on social media.During the broadcast, Pierron argued that participating in a World Cup represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should take precedence over family matters."The World Cup is an incredible joy," she stated. "There are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your shoes. It might never happen again in your life."She continued: "You're living out a childhood dream, yet you're going to walk away from it all to attend the birth of your child - a disgusting moment, if you'll pardon the expression, where the dad is completely useless."When fellow panellists challenged her position, Pierron refused to back down."He is going to waste 10 hours, he will be exhausted and have an emotional meltdown. Your baby will always be there," she added.L'Equipe's management moved to distance the organisation from Pierron's views in an official statement released after the broadcast."On Friday, June 19, during a debate on the show 'L'quipe de Choc', France Pierron made remarks that shocked many viewers of the L'quipe channel," the statement read. "The team disassociates itself from these remarks which are very far removed from the Group's values and apologizes to the footballer concerned and more generally to its fans."Pierron subsequently issued an apology via social media, insisting her comments represented only her personal view."My intention has never been to minimise the place or role of fathers with their partner and their child," she wrote.However, reports suggest internal tensions have emerged over management's handling of the situation, with the editorial team reportedly questioning why bosses initially ordered the viral post to remain online before later demanding its removal.Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins voiced his backing for Doku when asked about the controversy at an England press conference."I think for a start (disgusting) is not a way to label a birth," Watkins said. "It only happens once, your first child. Welcoming them into the world is a blessing, and you don't get that opportunity (again)."The England forward emphasised that Doku had every right to be present for such a significant moment."I see where (Doku) is coming from. I think he has all the right to go back and be there," Watkins added, noting that the Belgian's resources would enable him to travel swiftly and return to the tournament.Doku missed Belgium's goalless draw against Iran on Sunday due to a chest infection, with Rudi Garcia's side struggling without their winger.Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
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