Former England player believes White should not be called up to the national team

In March 2024, Arsenal defender Ben White requested not to be called up for England matches due to a conflict with a coaching staff member at the 2022 World Cup. Even though the coach has changed, the Gunners' player remains out of the national team. And, according to former England player Chris Waddle, it's quite justified.

Details: As the former Tottenham and Newcastle forward explained, at a rather late age, one should not refuse to play for the national team. And if you've already made such a decision, it should be once and for all.

Quote: "I wouldn't bring Ben White back. He said he doesn't want to be called up again. He spat the dummy out, didn't he? So now he can play. Does he want to pick his England career? Listen, you never say you don't want to play for England. I would never say that. I'd play if I was 50. So modern players who say, 'I'm not being called up, so don't call me up anymore,' suddenly become available.

For the time he didn't play, didn't want to play, I'd say, 'Well, we'll give you the same ban.' So if it was a year or two, then I'd consider you in two years. For me, you should never refuse. Okay, if you don't get along with the manager and don't like the style of play, you still won't be picked. But when you're called up late, you shouldn't refuse," Waddle stated.

Reminder: White was not included in Thomas Tuchel's first squad as England manager, as he had only just recovered from a knee injury.