Southgate Leaves Door Open for White's Return to England Squad

Despite Ben White's request to be excluded from the recent England squad for the matches against Brazil and Belgium, Gareth Southgate has expressed that the defender's decision does not entirely rule out his potential inclusion in the future. White's absence has compounded the defensive challenges faced by Southgate, with several players sidelined due to injuries. However, the England manager has reiterated that the door is still open for White to be considered for the Euro 2024 squad if he expresses a desire to return.

He told reporters: "It's really for Ben now. As I've said, the door is open for us. That's clearly difficult ahead of the Euros, when [he’s] missed all of the qualifying campaign and you've got players that have played all the way through.  But we have no idea of knowing who's going to be available in that area of the pitch. We’ve lost four to injury this camp. So, as I said, for me, it's open. I have absolutely no issue.”

According to reports, Ben White has chosen to decline England duty, citing challenges in adjusting to a peripheral role within the squad and a previous altercation with assistant manager Steve Holland as contributing factors. Following his early departure from the World Cup in 2022 due to "personal reasons," White has not made an appearance for the national team since. Declan Rice, his Arsenal teammate, has expressed his intention to persuade White to reconsider his decision. However, it remains uncertain if White will resume his international career, particularly under Gareth Southgate's leadership.

• Jude Bellingham's New Model Girlfriend Unveiled
• Tottenham vs Arsenal Prediction, Odds & Betting Tips 04/28/2024

Gareth Southgate's final opportunity to observe his team in action before selecting the preliminary squad for Euro 2024 was during England's friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium. The deadline for naming the preliminary squad is May 21, just two days after the conclusion of the Premier League season. Following this, the Three Lions have two additional friendlies against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland, after which Southgate must finalize and announce his squad by June 8.

Arsenal Legend Disheartened by Ben White's Absence from England's Euro 2024 Squad

Alan Smith, an Arsenal legend, expresses disappointment over Ben White's decision to withdraw from England duty, describing it as a "great shame."