One talkSPORT pundit has now sought to explain his recent comments about Ben White after Arsenal fans took issue with his stance.
Much has been said in the media about Ben White in recent days.
The Arsenal right-back has been in the headlines for his refusal to represent his country. Gareth Southgate recently confirmed that White has asked to no longer be considered for England selection.
The defender’s stance drew the ire of some. For instance, former Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp aimed a furious rant at White, as he was appalled by the Arsenal man’s decision. talkSPORT pundit Simon Jordan also took issue with White’s course of action.
What did Jeff Stelling say about Ben White?
Jordan’s talkSPORT colleague, Jeff Stelling, has since made his own feelings on the situation clear. After White’s partner revealed that he spent a chunk of the international break in Dubai, whilst the Three Lions slumped to defeat against Brazil, Stelling felt compelled to comment.
He said, “he decided he didn’t want to play for England in the games against Brazil and Belgium. He has been enjoying his time there by the looks of it. While his England team-mates suffered a 1-0 defeat to Brazil, Ben was enjoying a game of Uno and soaking up the sun on a beach in Dubai.”
“I have a bit of sympathy for people who play cards, but not Ben. What are you doing? What are you doing posting the fact that you are in Dubai playing cards? You decided not to play for England, that’s fine. Your prerogative, just let the boys get on with it.”
White is a fan-favourite at the Emirates Stadium, and will have the backing of many of the club’s supporters over this issue. Plenty of those fans felt that Stelling’s comments were out of line. As such, the broadcaster has now sought to explain himself.
Taking to X, Stelling claimed, “Re Ben White. This taken right out of context. Completely his prerogative not to play for England and we could do with him now. Just suggested gently that when England have lost to Brazil not the best time to post him in Dubai playing Uno.”
What will Arsenal and Mikel Arteta make of Ben White controversy?
Mikel Arteta will have sanctioned White’s trip to Dubai. It is also clear that the club are supportive of the 26-year-old’s decision to spurn the international setup. Arsenal handed White a new long-term contract on the same day as Southgate’s announcement, which must be viewed as a tacit show of support.
The player and the manager will both be keen for the media furore to blow over, though. The Gunners have plenty of hugely important fixtures coming up, and White will have a big part to play in them. Arteta won’t want anything distracting the defender from his duties on the pitch for the north London club.
White has been hailed by his Arsenal teammates for having a “warrior” spirit. His mentality will surely have been tested by his time in the spotlight.
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