A fresh theory has emerged regarding Ben White's controversial departure from the England squad in 2022. Broadcaster Adrian Durham claimed on talkSPORT that the Arsenal defender refused to watch video analysis of opponents, leading to a confrontation with England analysts.
According to Durham, players were given videos on laptops or iPads to study, but White chose not to watch them. The analysts, using tracking technology, identified who had not viewed the footage. When questioned, White reportedly became 'really upset' and subsequently left the squad.
White returned to the England setup this month under new manager Thomas Tuchel, coming on as a substitute against Uruguay. He scored a late goal but conceded a penalty, resulting in a 1-1 draw. The 28-year-old was jeered by sections of the crowd, a reaction Tuchel described as disappointing.
Tuchel confirmed White remains in his plans and could start Tuesday's match against Japan. 'He has our support,' Tuchel said. 'If he has a good training session, he's in the mix.'
Durham questioned whether Tuchel should have recalled White if the theory is true, stating: 'If that is true, why on earth would Thomas Tuchel want him back in the squad when he's not prepared to put the hard yards in?' He added that if the claim is false, he apologises and called for 'the flipping truth'.
