Kevin Kilbane has accused a former teammate of being xenophobic towards him over his role on Canadian television.
Since moving to Canada in 2020 after marrying Canadian professional skater Brianne Delcourt, Kilbane has been a regular pundit for broadcaster TSN.
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Now Kilbane is part of the TSN team covering Canada's first World Cup since 1985, including their 1-0 loss to Belgium on Wednesday.
But Kilbane's inclusion in the punditry lineup has been criticised by some ex-Canada internationals, including his former West Brom teammate Paul Peschisolido.
Peschisolido tweeted: "Good on FoxTV having ex-USA players Lalas, Dempsey, Donavon and Colby Jones to commentate whilst Canada has former British footballers instead of inviting back former Canadian footballers, shameful."
Unsurprisingly, Kilbane defended his role on the panel, responding to Peschisolido: "We 3 Canadian and ex Canadian internationals here as well as an ex Canadian National coach so that leaves only me open to your criticism Pesh.
"Have you come “home” and worked on MLS or CPL coverage that would qualify your inclusion?"
Peschisolido then tweeted: "I’m not looking for a gig Kev,but would of liked to of seen Canada involve former Canadian players!"
Kilbane then responded: "Well we have four who have Canadian National team involvement.
"Also failed to mention, I’m also not British and not so sure who else there could be on the panel!"
Kilbane went on to argue: "I find the sentiment quite racist or Xenophobic. Fox also have ex England ints & ex English PL players on their panel who provide impartial views.
"I am Irish not British & now a proud Canadian resident. That tweet suggests I’m not entitled to work like other Canadians?"
Kilbane, who won 110 caps for the Republic of Ireland and has plenty of punditry experience, has received plenty of support from other television players and fellow players.
He said: "Proud to sit beside them with a great team around us. I try and provide a different view which I hope comes across."
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