GARETH SOUTHGATE has broken the silence on Ben White’s England absence after the Arsenal star failed to make the squad again.
Last year White left the Three Lions ahead of the 2022 World Cup for “personal reasons” and is yet to return.
England are set to face Malta and North Macedonia in the upcoming international break and Southgate named a very similar squad to the last time out.
And when asked if Ben White was available for selection Southgate claimed he is but the defender is not his first pick.
He said: “I assume so. Ben has been very solid for Arsenal. He’s a different profile of full-back.
“He’s a centre-back playing at full-back, really. He’s behind a couple of others.”
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The Englishman’s continual exclusion has left many to question what the reason is for his absence.
Southgate added he was not left out for anything more than footballing issues.
He said the Three Lions have Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier Reece James and a couple of youngsters in the ranks who are capable of playing in White’s position.
He continued: “No, we’ve got Kyle, we’ve got Kieran, Reece James, it’s a position we’ve got strength. There’s a couple of good young ones coming through.”
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The England manager was put in charge of the senior squad back in 2016 having coached the U21 side for three seasons.
But with his contract set to run out in December 2024, the ex-Crystal Palace star spoke about his thoughts for what could be his final year as boss.
Southgate added: “I’m out of contract next December. I think any manager is thinking beyond seven months is in a very privileged position.
“I’m super excited about the tournament. For me I’m really comfortable with this position.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
