Ben White returns to England squad for first time since 2022 World Cup exit

Arsenal defender Ben White has ended his self-imposed exile from the England national team, earning his first call-up since the 2022 World Cup.

White Back in England Fold After Ending Southgate-Era Absence

The 28-year-old right-back rejoins the squad for the upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan at Wembley Stadium.

White’s return marks a significant shift in his international career after he left England’s camp in Qatar during the 2022 World Cup due to personal reasons.

Following that departure, White made himself unavailable for selection for the remainder of Gareth Southgate’s tenure as manager.

However, new head coach Thomas Tuchel has now brought the defender back into the fold.

White’s recall comes after Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah withdrew from Tuchel’s 35-man provisional squad because of an injury.

The Arsenal star has previously earned four senior caps for England, with his last appearance coming in a 3-0 victory over Ivory Coast in March 2022.

The England squad will face Uruguay on Friday at Wembley, followed by a second friendly against Japan on March 31.

Despite White’s inclusion, Tuchel has left out Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, who also operates primarily as a right-back. The selection suggests a competitive battle for defensive places under the new manager.

The squad has seen further changes elsewhere. Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze, who plays alongside White at Arsenal, has also withdrawn from the camp.

Newcastle winger Harvey Barnes replaces Eze. The 28-year-old Barnes will look to add to his solitary England cap, which he earned six years ago.

White’s return to international duty signals a fresh start for the defender under the new management team, ending a prolonged period of absence that stretched across the final years of the previous regime.