Manager Thomas Tuchel has implored England fans not to boo Ben White when he returns to international duty after withdrawing from the 2022 World Cup.
White is set to make his return to England against Uruguay (Image: PA)
Manager Thomas Tuchel has urged fans not to boo Ben White’s return to England. But Tuchel also admitted the Arsenal defender owed an explanation to his team-mates ahead of his first cap since being sent off against England at the 2022 World Cup.
White was called up to the England squad for friendlies against Uruguay and Japan in an effort to end his three-and-a-half year exile.
England manager Tuchel has never publicly explained his views, insisting the 27-year-old was desperate to join him despite the uproar over his departure from camp.
Asked what he expected from England fans, Tuchel said: “Support, because he’s playing for England and we’re playing in positive moments. There’ll be some new players on the pitch, so I hope everyone will support us.”
“I can imagine there are some strong opinions, but no one in the camp has expressed the strongest opinions, so yes, he deserves a second chance.
read more: Thomas Tuchel warns England squad candidates they are in the bar with their last chance to qualify for the World Cupread more: Noni Madueke has no intention of ‘slowing down’ in his bid to qualify for the World Cup
“People have to trust me that his behavior is very, very good. He’s willing to come back and has been desperate to come back for months. Now he has that chance.”
“Believe it or not, I haven’t heard any stories about it. I asked him and he didn’t want to talk about it. I didn’t want to know about it because I think he needs a second chance. I want to give him a second chance.”
“He didn’t do anything wrong with me, something must have happened, because it’s never good for a player to leave the tournament and nothing ever goes away.
“I don’t know if ‘apology’ is the right word, but probably just to clear the air with the players who were there, which he has done and will continue to do with the majority of players who come here now. He trains at a very high level and is very good in training.
“The reaction to his call-up was very positive. Within seconds there was a very positive and emotional reaction from him. He made it clear how happy he was to be back and this is what he has shown in recent days.”
“Everyone is entitled to a second chance, but we don’t even know if he did something wrong or what happened. But there’s definitely an explanation going on among the players who were there to clear the air.”
Meanwhile, England defender John Stones has a calf problem and is doubtful that he will be able to play against Uruguay.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive Mirror Football content every day. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can always check out. If you are interested, please read our privacy notice.
England’s 2026 World Cup kit
Various prices
england official store
Buy now from England’s official store
England and Nike have launched new home, away and goalkeeper kits to be worn at this summer’s FIFA World Cup. Use code: ENGFREEDEL to get free shipping on all orders.
