September 10th 2024.
One of the top right-backs in the Premier League is definitely Ben White. The talented Arsenal star recently shared with Lee Carsley that he prefers not to be contacted by the England manager, as he continues to be left out of the national team.
Carsley, who is currently the interim manager, has had a strong start with two impressive wins against the Republic of Ireland and Finland in the Nations League. Trent Alexander-Arnold, a standout player under Gareth Southgate's successor, has been making headlines with his pivotal role in Harry Kane's two goals against Finland.
However, it is another right-back who is not a part of the Three Lions squad that is still making waves. This is due to White's noticeable absence from the team. The Arsenal defender has not played for his country since withdrawing from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for personal reasons, which are believed to be linked to a disagreement with Southgate's assistant manager, Steve Holland.
Southgate had previously stated that the door was open for White to return ahead of Euro 2024, but the 26-year-old had made it clear that he was not available for selection. Even after Carsley announced his first England squad last month, he reiterated that there has been no change in White's situation.
During the post-match interview after the Finland win, Carsley was asked once again about the possibility of White being recalled to the team. The interim boss suggested that the defender had himself closed the door on his country for good. "I've not planned to talk to Ben White," Carsley stated. "As far as I am aware, he has requested to not be contacted. If that changes, then that will change."
He went on to explain that every eligible player has a chance to play for England and it is important to have strong competition in all positions. While White may not be currently in the picture, Carsley still has a talented pool of right-backs to choose from, including Alexander-Arnold, Rico Lewis, Tino Livramento, Kyle Walker, and Reece James who are not in the current squad.
White's next game will be with Arsenal on Sunday when they face off against Tottenham in the highly anticipated North London Derby. As he continues to impress for his club, it remains to be seen if he will make a return to the England squad in the future. But for now, he remains focused on his performances for Arsenal and helping them achieve success.
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