(Reuters) – Midfielder Declan Rice expressed his intention, along with other Arsenal players, to convince teammate Ben White to reconsider his decision and make himself available for England national team duty. This comes after England coach Gareth Southgate revealed that White had requested not to be considered for friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, despite his impressive form.
Southgate had highlighted the challenge of choosing White for the upcoming European Championship due to his absence from recent international matches. Rice emphasized White’s versatility on the field, stating, “He is a really unique player because he can play three positions – centre-back, right-back, and inverted full-back. In tournaments, that versatility is crucial.”
Looking ahead to England’s match against Belgium, Rice mentioned his plans to discuss the matter with White upon their return to Arsenal after the international break. He expressed the collective desire of himself, Bukayo Saka, and Aaron Ramsdale to have White back in the squad, stating, “We’re all going to be on him when we get back. Hopefully, he can change his mind.”
It remains to be seen whether White will reconsider his decision and make himself available for selection in England’s upcoming fixtures. His potential return would undoubtedly bolster the team’s defensive options and provide valuable versatility in different positions on the pitch.
These discussions reflect the camaraderie and teamwork among Arsenal players, who are eager to support one another in national team matters. The bond between teammates extends beyond club competitions, showcasing a strong sense of unity and collaboration within the squad.
Rice’s proactive approach in encouraging White to reconsider his stance demonstrates the determination and commitment of Arsenal players to represent their country at the highest level. His words resonate with a shared goal of success and unity within the national team setup.
As the European Championship approaches, the decision-making process for Southgate becomes increasingly crucial in finalizing the squad for the tournament. White’s potential inclusion could add depth and tactical flexibility to England’s defensive setup, offering valuable options for different game scenarios.
The outcome of these discussions and White’s final decision will have implications not only for the national team’s defensive strategies but also for the morale and spirit of the squad. The collective efforts of players like Rice in rallying support for their teammate underscore the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in international football.
With the upcoming match against Belgium serving as a platform for showcasing their talents and team cohesion, the conversation surrounding White’s availability adds an intriguing dimension to the build-up to the European Championship. The Arsenal contingent’s unity and determination could play a significant role in shaping England’s prospects in the tournament.
