England star considering shock return to the national team after Southgate’s departure

As England FA continue the search for Gareth Southgate’s replacement, Arsenal defender Ben White is reportedly considering a shock return to the England national team set-up.

Gareth Southgate resigned as England manager following the teams defeat to Spain in the final of EURO 2024. Despite worthy of being selected for the tournament, White sensationally ruled himself out of international selection in March ahead of the Three Lions’ friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.

White’s decision to withdraw from international football was almost two years in the making, but it reportedly originated from a pointed remark made by Southgate’s assistant Steve Holland.

However, the former Brighton player’s, according to the Daily Star, is now considering a return to the fold following the departures of Southgate and Holland.

Ben White of England looks on during the England Training Session at Al Wakrah Stadium on November 26, 2022 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Ben White row with Southgate

In March it was revealed that the rift between the pair was sparked by Holland questioning White’s interest in football while England were in Qatar in November 2022.

Southgate’s assistant reportedly asked Kyle Walker a question related to Manchester City ‘s performances in the previous season, before posing the same question to White in regards to Arsenal.

The 26-year-old allegedly claimed he did not know the answer, leading Holland to claim that was down to his lack of interest in football.

The conversation is said to have happened in front of other members of the squad.

On November 30, a day after England beat Wales 3-0 in their final group game, the FA announced White had left camp and returned home.

According to the Telegraph, White was particularly upset by the public nature of the conversation, rather than by Holland’s specific comment. White has previously admitted he was never a football fan when he was younger and rarely watches matches to this day.

England are looking at appointing a new manager in the next few weeks and its left to see if White will reverse his decision.