Is Ivan Yates right? Is Stephanie Roche’s nomination for the Puskas Award “tokenism because she’s a woman”?
Now we all know it’s not at all like Ivan to put the cat among the pigeons, but his rant on Breakfast this morning has ruffled a few feathers.
“There’s no way she deserves it,” said Ivan of Dubliner Roche potentially winning FIFA’s goal of the year tonight in Zurich. “It’s the height of tokenism. Even Andy Carroll can score against Wexford Youths."
Roche is on a three-person shortlist for the award - alongside James Rodriguez and Robin van Persie - following her wonder-strike against Wexford Youths for Peamount United in the Women's National League back in 2013.
“It’s a great goal but she was playing for Peamount United. Give me a break," added Ivan.
“It’s tokenism because she’s a woman. The fact that she’s Irish – fantastic and good luck to her – but there’s no way she deserves it.”
You can listen to Ivan here and give let us know what you think in the poll below.
