New England coach Thomas Tuchel is set to speak to Arsenal defender Ben White, pictured, when he starts work (Fabrizio Carabelli/PA) (Image: PA Wire/PA Images)
Thomas Tuchel is set to begin his tenure as England manager come New Year and has confirmed he will approach Arsenal’s Ben White regarding a possible national team comeback.
White, who hasn’t donned the Three Lions shirt since his premature departure from the 2022 World Cup squad, could be in line for a fresh start under new leadership.
Speaking with journalists in Zurich on Friday, Tuchel explained: “I will reach out to him. It should be a clean start and a clear narrative.”
“I will be in the stadiums from January. I will also not distract the players and they should just know: ‘Okay, the boss is there from January’.”
File photo dated 25/11/22 of Ben White. New England coach Thomas Tuchel will speak to Arsenal defender Ben White about a possible national team return in the new year. Issue date: Friday December 13, 2024. (Image: © 2024 PA Media, All Rights Reserved)
With an eye on the approaching 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where England faces nations like Serbia and Andorra, Tuchel is considering reshuffling his defence with the return of the Arsenal man.
White has demonstrated versatility by shifting from centre-back to right-back under Arteta at Arsenal and possesses the kind of adaptability that could prove vital.
Despite earning four caps and having had the nod for major tournaments including Euro 2020 and the last World Cup, White has yet to make his mark on the international stage – something Tuchel may well be aiming to change.
Currently in recovery after a minor knee surgery last month, White’s potential return to international football adds an intriguing dynamic to England’s back-line options.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1988540/Arsenal-Ben-White-England-Thomas-Tuchel