Unveiling the Choice: Mikel Arteta Reveals Ben White’s Decision to Opt Out of Playing for England and Labels Him ‘Brave’
MIKEL ARTETA lauded the “brave” Ben White after the player expressed to Thomas Tuchel his eagerness to rejoin the England national team.
The Arsenal defender has yet to play for his country again since he left the 2022 Qatar World Cup prematurely following an alleged dispute with assistant coach Steve Holland.
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Nonetheless, White, 27, conveyed to the new England boss Tuchel that he would be “excited” to make his return, although he was not fit enough to be part of the squad for yesterday’s match.
This comes despite a caution from Three Lions icon Stuart Pearce: “If players let you down once, they will always let you down.”
However, Arteta stood by his player, stating: “What Ben did was very brave, and not many would have dared to do it.
“I was heavily involved in [White turning down the call-up].
“I completely understand how Ben felt, and it was clear to me why he made that decision.
“It wasn’t about [disappointing the nation]. It was about facing up to the situation and saying, ‘I can’t manage this right now, and I am not in the right mindset to represent the country as I should’.
“Thus, it was quite the opposite. Many would opt to hide away in such circumstances.
“Regardless of the end result, my primary concern is Ben’s well-being.”
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“Given Ben’s character, he won’t be influenced by others.
“If a connection develops between Thomas and him, that’s wonderful. If he wants to join the squad and Thomas is open to it, that’s superb.
Ben White aims for England return as Thomas Tuchel confirms Arsenal star ‘would love to be back’ in the squad
“He has the talent and potential to achieve amazing things with the national team.”
Tuchel had conversations with right-back White before excluding him from his initial squad to face Albania on Friday and Latvia three days later.
White made his first start since November in Arsenal’s 2-2 Champions League draw against PSV Eindhoven following a knee surgery.
Tuchel remarked: “He is keen to be back with the squad. It’s somewhat premature considering his recent injury.
“We are monitoring his training closely. We are in contact with Ben. I’m delighted he’s back.
“It’s about gaining more minutes and finding his rhythm. He has a good chance of coming back. He’s happy to be back.”
Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri received his first call-up to the England Under-21s.
The 17-year-old forward will participate in friendlies against France and Portugal.
Nwaneri, who has been impressive this season under Arteta with eight goals across all competitions, was even considered for a senior call-up.
