Ben White says public lacks "full story" behind England absence but stands by decision
Arsenal defender Ben White, recalled to England's squad, says people do not know the full story behind his earlier unavailability for selection and that he would make the same decision again.
Arsenal defender Ben White has said the public does not know the "full story" behind his earlier decision to make himself unavailable for England, but insisted he would make the same choice again. White left the England camp at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for personal reasons and then stayed unavailable for selection for the rest of Gareth Southgate's tenure.
White, now named in Thomas Tuchel's squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, declined to detail what happened. Asked what he would tell people who judge his England career by Qatar, he said he had never spoken about it and would not put anyone "under the bus" or share that information, describing that as probably the best approach.
Reflecting on the decision, White said he does not think he would do anything differently. He acknowledged he was younger at the time but described himself as someone who is "quite real," adding that it was a decision he would probably continue to make and that it is time to move on.
White returned to the England squad under Tuchel and was booed by some supporters during March's 1-1 draw, a match in which he scored but also conceded the penalty that led to the equaliser. The article notes contrasting reactions: Chelsea midfielder Jordan Henderson said he and his England teammates would always support White, while Tuchel said the defender deserves "a new chapter" and "positive feedback from the crowd."
White described that night at Wembley as full of emotions but a good night, and said it is an amazing privilege to be called up, with the feeling the same every time he gets the chance to play for England. England play Croatia at Wembley on Thursday, 12 November before facing world champions Spain in Madrid three days later, and White is looking to add to his six caps.
Image: AFP via Getty Images / BBC Sport
