"He has asked to be not contacted" - England interim manager confirms Arsenal star does not want to play for national side
England interim manager Lee Carsley has confirmed Arsenal defender Ben White does not wish to be a part of the national team. The right-back seemingly fell out with former Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate and withdrew from representing his country.
It was thought White could return to the England squad following Southgate's departure after Euro 2024. However, it doesn't seem to be the case, with Carsley clarifying the 26-year-old wishes not to be contacted concerning the national team.
Carsley said about the situation (via @EduardoHagn):
"I've not planned to talk to Ben White. He has asked to be not contacted. We're not talking. It's his decision."
Although White has established himself as one of the best right-backs in the Premier League, England have several defenders to choose from. During their 2-0 win over Finland in the Nations League on Tuesday, September 10, Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold played in that position.
Tino Livramento was also a part of the squad and can play in this role, along with other experienced stars like Kyle Walker. Therefore, one may say that the right-back position isn't much of a worry, but it would certainly help to have someone of White's quality.
This is particularly important, given White can also play as a central defender. During the international break, Carsley started four different players in the two centre-back positions, which may suggest he's still finding the perfect pair.
Arsenal star Ben White cried after England call up
While much has been said about Arsenal star Ben White's intentions of representing the England national team, the player admitted it means a great deal to him.
Following an injury to Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold heading into Euro 2020, which took place in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, White was selected for the squad. Speaking to Sky Sports about how he felt when he got the call, the full-back said (via Mirror):
"I got a phone call, got told the news. I was out for dinner, I didn't really believe it. Yeah, I just sat in and cried for about an hour. I couldn't really believe it."
However, since being picked for The Three Lions, White has managed to make just four appearances. He will, however, be in action when Arsenal take on Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday, September 15.