Ben White Returns to England Squad for Uruguay and Japan Friendlies
Arsenal right-back Ben White has been called up to the England squad for upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, following an injury to Bayer Leverkusen center-back Jarell Quansah. This marks White’s first inclusion in the national team since November 2022 Sky Sports.
White’s Return After a Prolonged Absence
White, 28, has earned four caps for England, but hasn’t featured since leaving the team’s camp during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Reports at the time suggested a disagreement with the coaching staff led to his departure Sky Sports. He subsequently indicated he was unavailable for selection under former manager Gareth Southgate.
However, current England manager Thomas Tuchel has been keen to involve White since taking the helm in late 2024 The Guardian. Injury issues had previously prevented his inclusion, but Quansah’s withdrawal has presented Tuchel with the opportunity he had been waiting for.
Barnes Also Called Up
Alongside White, Newcastle United’s Harvey Barnes has also been added to the 35-man squad, replacing Arsenal’s Eberechi Eze Sky Sports. Barnes has 14 goals across all competitions this season for Newcastle.
Tuchel’s Explanation for Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Exclusion
Notably, Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold was again overlooked by Tuchel. When questioned about the omission, Tuchel emphasized the depth England possesses at right-back and his preference for players who have been consistently involved in recent camps The Guardian.
“I grasp it’s a tough one, I know (Arnold-Alexander) is a large name,” Tuchel said. “I think that he’s a huge talent with a big career, but I feel like I know what Trent can grant us and decided to still to stick to the players who were in camp with us.”
Tuchel also stated that his decision wasn’t a reflection of Alexander-Arnold’s abilities, acknowledging his talent and past performances against his former teams The Guardian.
Looking Ahead to the Friendlies
England will face Uruguay on Friday and Japan next Tuesday as they continue their preparations for the upcoming World Cup. White and Barnes will be hoping to make a strong impression and secure their place in Tuchel’s final squad.
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