Lee Dixon, the Arsenal legend, believes that Ben White’s choice to prioritize his well-being over joining the England squad should not be criticized.
White has been absent from the England setup since March 2022 after opting to leave the World Cup squad for personal reasons, which also led to his exclusion from Gareth Southgate’s plans for Euro 2024.
As Southgate’s era ended after the Euro competition, speculation arose about a potential England return for White.
However, interim manager Lee Carsley clarified that White had requested to stay out of consideration, indicating he has no immediate desire to return, a stance Dixon feels deserves respect.
When asked about White before his first matches as temporary England manager, Carsley confirmed, “As far as I’m aware, he wasn’t available for selection… he has asked to be not contacted,” according to the Express.
Dixon commented on White’s situation, stating that only White knows the future of his international career. He emphasized that he respects White’s choices: “I won’t judge Ben for any decision he makes on his international future. As long as he and his family are happy, that is all that matters.”
Since joining Arsenal for £50 million from Brighton in 2021, White has become a key player under Mikel Arteta.
Starting as a center-back and later transitioning to right-back, he has been essential to Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge, leaving the door open for a possible England recall if he chooses to return.
