Mikel Arteta says he’d love to see Ben White play again for England but the Arsenal full-back’s decision to make himself unavailable should be respected.
Just hours after Arsenal confirmed the defender had committed his long-term future to the club, the 26-year-old made headlines for a different reason when England manager Gareth Southgate went public about the player’s decision to step away from international duty.
White was last selected by the Three Lions for the World Cup in Qatar but left the camp prematurely with various reports subsequently citing a bust-up with Southgate’s assistant Steve Holland as the reason.
Asked about the criticism levelled at the former Brighton player in the last two weeks, Arteta offered a different perspective.
“I think he has received a lot of love,” he said. “You just have to see what his teammates and what everybody in football thinks of him, the ones that have been close [to him].
“I think people have respected his decision and hopefully one day he’s prepared to represent his country in the best possible way, but that’s completely up to him.”
It’s understood that England did inform Arsenal that they would talk openly about White’s situation in advance of Southgate going public in his pre-Brazil press conference. All the same, Arteta was asked if he was surprised by his peer’s candour.
“I don’t know,” said the Spaniard. “That’s something between them. I don’t know what the arrangements were there and what they have agreed. That’s completely up to them.”
And pressed on whether he’d like to see White in an England shirt again, he added: “As manager, I want the best for him personally and professionally and he really needs to feel it.
“If one day he does and that’s the case, yeah, I think that will be the best option for everybody, but you have to respect that.”
White is expected to line up for the Gunners against Manchester City on Sunday. So far this season he’s made 39 appearances for Arsenal making four assists and scoring two goals.
It’s possible but the current Hoddle-esque regime within the England camp where players are treated like kids and not grown adults will have to change first.
Can’t wait Southgate to take over united 😂
I’d rather see them keep Eric ten Haag, it is hard to see them improving further in entertainment value than what they already provide. I’m open to being positively surprised though…
You mean, no trophy?
Or they bring back Maureen. 🙂
They should’ve sent Southgate back with Brazil as unwanted luggage.
“Bom dia senhor, I’m afraid you can’t bring that into Brazil in a suitcase, that sort of stupidity is classified here as a bio hazard and not allowed in the country.”
Guess maybe they tried.
All I have to say is
“Fuck off Southgate”
Ben White has secured a place in most Gooners’ hearts, I am sure – certainly mine – for his warrior mentality, commitment to the team cause, brilliant football, minor shithousery – and the strength of his individualism.
Exactly, I’m the only one here. Guess why? Because every gooner and their dog is bored of this issue 😅🤣😂
Who gives two hoots about England FC? Too many players in the squad to dislike – feel for the arsenal guys that get called up and have to endure the idiots!!!
He was only ever going to be behind Walker and Trippier in coach’s eyes so why all the concern in media – oh, just to upset him for Arsenal and create clicks.
Because three of their right backs are out.