ARSENAL defender Ben White snubbed a spot in the latest England squad, according to Gareth Southgate.
White has not featured for the Three Lions since 2022.
The defender was named in Southgate’s 26-man England squad ahead of the Qatar World Cup but left camp during the tournament due to personal reasons.
Reports at the time claimed he left following an alleged bust-up with assistant coach Steve Holland.
However, Southgate has insisted that there is no rift between the two.
The England boss said: “On form, I can’t say he (White) doesn’t deserve to be here. John McDermott had a call from Edu last week saying Ben didn’t want to be considered for England at this time.
“That’s a shame. He’s a player I really like. I spoke to him post Qatar and there was clearly reticence from his side. I don’t know fully why that is.
“But I want to leave the door open because he’s a good player. There is no issue between us at all.
“I should say there is no issue with Steve Holland, that has been mentioned in articles and I don’t like that.
“I have to accept things get said about me, and you have to stomach that, but I’m not prepared to have that for a key member of my coaching team because that is not the reason.
Most read in Football
CHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL
He continued: “100 per cent (door is still open for White). He would be in this squad but he’s not available to us.
“I have to respect it. He’s not the first player who at times hasn’t wanted to be available for selection. I’ve always tried to protect those players.
“Sometimes as a leader you have to take the flak for others and give them the time to come through.
“He’s clearly playing very well and has been for a long time. But he’s not available to us.
“You always have to find a different solution. The very first squad I picked I had a player call and say thanks but no. You just have to move on.”
Discussing White’s chances of making the Euro 2024 squad, Southgate added: “Clearly to come in for June now would be difficult because others will be in the squad and playing regularly.
“Whenever you have a situation like that you have to assess those who have been on the journey all the way through.”
White has been in fine form for Arsenal this season.
The defender has made 39 appearances for Mikel Arteta’s side since the start of the campaign, scoring twice and providing four assists.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
