Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says Ben White has received "a lot of love" after making himself unavailable for England selection.
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- White rules himself out of England action
- Alleged feud with Three Lions coach Holland
- Arteta stands by Arsenal defender's actions
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WHAT HAPPENED?
England boss Gareth Southgate revealed White had requested not to be called up for international matches, following a reported feud with assistant coach Steve Holland dating back to the 2022 World Cup. Now, Gunners manager Arteta has stood by the 26-year-old.
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WHAT MIKEL ARTETA SAID
He told reporters: “I think he [White] has received a lot of love and you just have to see what his team-mates and everybody in football think of them, especially the ones that have been close to him. I think people have respected his decision and hopefully one day he is prepared to represent his country in the best possible way, but that's completely up to him.”
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
It appears White may choose to snub England call-ups while Southgate is in charge of the Three Lions. The former Middlesbrough manager said the defender is a player he really likes but his decision to miss England's friendlies against Brazil and Belgium was a "great shame". While he is not playing for his country, White is starring for Arsenal as they attempt to win the Premier League this season.
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WHAT NEXT?
White's Arsenal side are back in action after the conclusion of the international break when they travel to title rivals Manchester City on Easter Sunday. The Gunners sit top of the league, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference, with Pep Guardiola's men a point adrift in third.