Arsenal right-back Ben White reportedly clashed with England’s coach before his World Cup exit as Sterling returned to the team after an attack on his home.
England World Cup squad witnessed a series of drama with Ben and Sterling making headlines after both were forced to leave the team.
While Raheem Sterling was set to return to the team after his initial departure, Ben White’s case was different.
White exited the Three Lions’ camp in Qatar when Gareth Southgate’s team was warming up against the USA in the second group game.
Then, the reason the Arsenal right-back left the England World Cup squad was not revealed.
After being included in the Three Lions World Cup squad by Gareth Southgate following his brilliant performance with Premier League leaders, Arsenal, reports surfaced that he would return to England prematurely.
Meanwhile, Ben White did not feature in the Three Lions opener against Iran and was not also included in the starting lineup against USA.
It was reported that Ben White left the Three Lions Squad for ‘personal reasons,’ with the English FA issuing a statement to that effect.
While wishing the Premier League star well, the FA said no inquiry into the conditions of Ben White’s departure is necessary, and his ‘privacy has to be respected.’
Premier League leaders Arsenal also posted a message of solidarity with Ben White following the shock exit, but the reason behind the departure was not revealed.
According to Daily Star, in a news report released after the incident, Ben White was caught in a bust-up with England Assistant manager Steve Holland before his departure.
The report confirmed that Ben joined the team meeting ahead of the second game against the USA. When he was asked about his personal information and other vital details about England’s opponent, he could not answer.
This led to a temporary faceoff between him and Steve Holland.
Ben was also uncomfortable with the team’s training base at AI Wakrah and could not gel with his teammates. This raised concern among the coaching crew. After a brief meeting with him, it was agreed he should be allowed to leave the squad.
Ben White started 14 of all Arsenal’s Premier League games this season and was an integral part of the team, helping the team to stay top of the Premier League table.
After Ben White’s saga, Raheem Sterling was hit with a burglary attack back at his England home in Surrey estate. He had to leave Qatar and travel home to ensure the security of his family.
He has returned to the squad as England prepares for a crunch World Cup quarterfinal clash with France. Raheem Sterling was spotted training with the Three Lions for the first time after the attack. He received a warm hug from his teammates as they braced up against Les Bleus.
It is still unclear whether Gareth Southgate will start the former Manchester City and Chelsea forward against France. There are speculations he may likely field the same squad that demolished Senegal 3-0 in the round of 16. Hence, Sterling may likely make the bench Vs France.
