Former England international Conor Coady has now lifted the lid on what Arsenal defender Ben White was really like on international duty.
Arsenal star Ben White has recently taken himself out of contention for England selection.
Gareth Southgate recently revealed that White has requested not to be picked for any upcoming England squads. The full reasoning behind the right-back’s decision is not yet clear, however, his course of action has been criticised by some.
Former Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp was appalled by White’s decision and pulled no punches in a furious rant about the player. However, White has had his defenders, who were quick to take issue with Redknapp’s comments.
The 26-year-old will also have the backing of Arsenal and Mikel Arteta. From a purely footballing perspective, the Gunners will be glad of the extra rest that the former Brighton and Hove Albion man will be afforded by not having to travel or play for his country.
The club also showed their tacit support for the player as, on the same day as Southgate’s announcement, Arsenal confirmed that White had been handed a new long-term contract. The timing of this news was almost certainly no coincidence.
What is Ben White like on England duty?
White is a fan-favourite at the Emirates Stadium, and a hugely important player in Arteta’s system. He is a consistent performer who the Spanish coach relies upon week in, week out. He has been in fantastic form in recent weeks, and has proven his commitment to the cause with his willingness to play through pain at times this season. White has been hailed by his Arsenal teammates for his “warrior” mentality.
He is a consummate professional, which suggests that there is more to his decision to snub the Three Lions than meets the eye.
White does have four England caps to his name. However, he has not been called up to a squad since he left 2022 World Cup in Qatar early, without having made an appearance in the competition.
Conor Coady was part of that England squad in Qatar, and he has now provided an insight into what White was like in the camp. Speaking on BBC 5 Live, the Leicester City man said, “when I was in the England squad and he was, he was a great character to have around the place. He is a great lad, first and foremost. How he trains, how he goes on about his business, he is top top drawer.”
Journalist Fabrizio Romano recently reported that White does not seem likely to change his mind about representing England any time soon. However, time will tell if his stance softens once Southgate and his coaching staff are no longer at the helm.
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