ITV World Cup star's remark sparks outrage as viewers fume 'embarrassing!'

A remark made by Karen Carney during ITV's coverage of the World Cup has left fans furious. The broadcaster was pitchside at New Jersey Stadium in New York with presenter Laura Woods and professional footballer Alessia Russo for England's final game of the group stages against Panama on Saturday (June 27) night. While interviewing Russo, Carney said she believes the forward's style of play resembles that of England striker Harry Kane. "He's obviously an out-in-out number nine, but likes to come into that midfield and get involved, similar to you," the former professional footballer remarked.

"Can you give us a little bit of insight about that and what he might do if the team sits deeper tonight, the opposition?" 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."

Viewers watching at home were furious over the remark, with many disagreeing that Russo plays anything like Kane.

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."

A second echoed: "According to Karen Carney, Alessia Russo plays like Harry Kane. Seriously. Why are we being subjected to this rubbish."

Another 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."

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 up ITV's coverage with Mark Pougatch and Semra Hunter, bringing fans the live action from studios in Brooklyn, New York.