Ben White’s controversial decision to not join the England squad for the upcoming friendlies has become a talking point. Harry Redknapp clearly feels more strongly about it than others…
Why did Ben White not join up with the England squad?
The reason for White’s decision is unclear but in the Qatar 2022 World Cup, White left the England camp after an alleged bust-up with Steve Holland. However, that rumour was put to bed as it was reported he actually left for ‘personal reasons’. White has not returned to the England squad since.
Gareth Southgate answered the question surrounding White’s decision. He said: “Clearly on form I can’t sit here and say he doesn’t deserve to be in.
“We – John McDermott and I – had a call from Edu (Arsenal sporing director) last week and he said Ben didn’t want to be considered for England squads at this time.
“For me that is a great shame. He is a player we took to the Euros, a player we took to the World Cup and I spoke to him post-Qatar because I wanted to pick him.
“He is not available to us and there is no issue between us at all and I also should say there is never any issue with (coach) Steve Holland because that has been mentioned in articles and I don’t like that.
“I want that door wide open. He would be in this squad but he’s not available to us and I have to focus on who can help us.”
What did Redknapp say about White?
Speaking on talkSport, the former Tottenham coach was disgusted that White chose not to link up with his national team.
He said: “I think Gareth Southgate said the door’s still open, didn’t he? The door should be slammed right in his mush.
“He doesn’t want to play for his country, he goes to the World Cup then comes home because he’s not getting in the team.
“I’m sorry, you’ve had your opportunity. You don’t want to play for England? You tell the Bobby Moores of this world who’s got 100-odd caps. The Shiltons, the Beckhams, the Rooneys – those people, go and tell the Billy Bonds of this world who didn’t get a cap and should have done, and all those great players that you don’t want to play for your country.
“I think it’s disgusting, I can’t have it.”
Does White have a future with England?
White has made four senior England caps since his debut in 2021. There’s plenty of competition in the right back spot for England with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker, Reece James and Kieran Tripper all world class options.
White has become accustomed to that spot since joining Arsenal due to lack of options at right back. During his Brighton and Leeds days, White’s natural position was at centre back and he made a huge impression on the bigger clubs.
“If he doesn’t want to play, it’s fine, okay but don’t play anymore, thank you very much,” Redknapp continued.
“You should be proud to play for your country. If you don’t want to play there’s plenty of other people who would give their right arm to play for England.
“If he doesn’t want to do it, it’s the end of him. If I’m Gareth now I’m saying thanks very much, we won’t bother you again.”
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