Harry Maguire expressed uncertainty regarding the reasons behind Ben White’s decision to decline England’s call-up, but he noted that the Arsenal defender trained exceptionally well before departing for the Qatar World Cup.
White’s absence from the 25-man squad facing Brazil and Belgium this month was notable, with Gareth Southgate disclosing that the 26-year-old had requested not to be considered for selection, as communicated through Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu.
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Since departing the Three Lions’ training camp prematurely during the 2022 World Cup amidst reports of a disagreement with Gareth Southgate’s assistant, Steve Holland, the versatile Arsenal star hasn’t featured at the international level.
Criticism has been leveled at White from various quarters, including former Tottenham and QPR manager Harry Redknapp, who labeled his decision as “disgusting” and called for Southgate to firmly shut the door on any potential return in the future.
It seems unlikely that White will be part of this summer’s European Championships squad, and Harry Maguire, a trusted member of Southgate’s squad, remains uncertain about the rationale behind his compatriot’s decisions.
‘Ben’s an excellent footballer,’ the Manchester United defender told The Times when asked about White’s decision ahead of England’s friendly game with Brazil.
‘He trained really well [at the World Cup before heading home early] but I honestly don’t know the ins and outs of why he’s not wanting to be in the squad at the moment.
‘All I do know is that playing for your country is the greatest honour a footballer can get.
‘When I was a young boy I dreamt of playing for my country. ‘Every opportunity I get I will take. Playing for my country means absolutely everything to me.’
Conor Coady echoed Maguire’s comments when asked about White, saying the Arsenal star came off as a ‘great character’ when they joined up with England two years ago.
‘When I was in the England squad and he was, he was a great character to have around the place,’ the Leicester defender told BBC Radio 5 Live.
‘He is a great lad, first and foremost. How he trains, how he goes on about his business, he is top top drawer.’
When asked if he had been left saddened by the situation, Coady said: ‘Yeah, because I think he is a phenomenal player.
‘What he is doing at this moment in time with Bukayo Saka down the right-hand side for Arsenal is, I think, incredible. ‘He deserves to play for his country.’
