Mikel Arteta sends message to Gareth Southgate over Ben White England recall
Mikel Arteta has verified that Ben White is a potential candidate to join Gareth Southgate’s England team for the upcoming qualifiers of Euro 2024.
The manager of the Three Lions is scheduled to announce his team for the upcoming games against Italy and Ukraine later today. However, it is uncertain whether the adaptable defender will be selected.
White departed from the World Cup squad in November, citing ‘personal reasons.’ However, some subsequent reports, which Southgate denied, suggested that the ex-Brighton player had been dismissed due to a disciplinary issue after an alleged altercation with assistant coach Steve Holland.
“I’ve been shown was alleged and there was another word that was used,” said Southgate following White’s decision to fly home ahead of the last 16 tie against Senegal.
“I think by commenting on the story I could be giving it any form of credibility, really. We explained why Ben left the camp and I think it’s important that is respected, really.”
At 25 years of age, the player has been crucial in Arsenal’s improbable bid for the Premier League championship, solidifying his status as Arteta’s preferred right-back.
When asked if he anticipated White being selected for Southgate’s team, Arteta commented: “He’s available for us so for sure, he will be available for the England squad.
“As far as I’m concerned, he’s been in really good form, he’s been available for every single match and he’s been performing really well for us.”
In contrast, White’s teammate at both club and international level, Emile Smith Rowe, faces a slightly more uncertain future due to injuries that have hindered his ability to make a significant impact so far.
The academy graduate from Hale End will be aiming to start in tonight’s second leg of the Europa League last 16 match in order to gain some rhythm and momentum ahead of the crucial stage of the season.
“He knows how much we love him and how much we missed him and how much we need his qualities,’ said Arteta.
“Now he needs to prove it. He needs to prove how much he wants to win and how much he’s going to contribute to this team. To be better and to win and he’s gonna have to show that to get on the team.
“We have to manage his load but for sure, he’s in a position where we can use him in the team at any moment. Then it’s about how he’s coping with the game in general and whether to take him off or use for the last few minutes.”
Mikel Arteta sends message to Gareth Southgate over Ben White England recall