Chris Waddle has called for a lifetime England ban for Arsenal defender Ben White over his past refusal to play for his country. The former Tottenham midfielder made the strong comments despite White's recent return to the international fold under manager Thomas Tuchel.
Waddle, who earned 62 caps for England, was unequivocal in his criticism. "Listen, Ben White shouldn’t be in the England squad, that’s my opinion," he said. "He refused to represent his country. I'm surprised Thomas (Tuchel) brought him back in, and I don't get why he has."
The 29-year-old Arsenal defender has six England caps but has been a figure of controversy since walking out of the squad at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for personal reasons. He was subsequently omitted from the squad for Euro 2024. Tuchel recalled him in March 2026 for Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain. His return was met with a mixed reception from supporters, who booed him when he came on as a substitute in a friendly against Uruguay earlier this year.
Waddle believes such a decision should be permanent. "When somebody turns down playing for their country, like Ben White did at Euro 2024, to me that's a lifetime ban," the former winger stated. He argued that a player who declines the honour of representing England should have "an asterisk next to your name that means you will never get the opportunity to put on that England shirt again."
White's club form for Arsenal, however, has been a key factor in his international recall. He is a regular starter for the Premier League leaders, who sit five points clear at the top with 27 points from 10 games. His recent performances include playing every minute of Arsenal's last five matches, a run that includes a 1-0 victory over Hull City last weekend. The Gunners' next fixture is a trip to face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday. The defender's contributions are part of a league-best defensive record of just five goals conceded this season.
When asked previously about his England experiences, White declined to elaborate, saying only that he would not "throw anyone under the bus." His focus remains on maintaining his place in Mikel Arteta's side, which continues its title charge from the summit of the standings.
More detail at standard.co.uk
