Ben White “asked to be not contacted” confirms Lee Carsley | OneFootball

Lee Carsley has provided an update on Ben White‘s future in international football, following England’s 2-0 victory over Finland.

White, who has not featured for England since a friendly against Ivory Coast in 2022, remains absent from the national team setup despite his excellent form for Arsenal.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 23: Ben White of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Chelsea FC at Emirates Stadium on April 23, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

The 26-year-old, widely regarded as one of the most talented full-backs in the country, has earned just four senior international caps, the last of which came over two years ago.

White was part of Gareth Southgate’s squad for the 2022 World Cup but departed early, citing personal reasons. Rumours soon surfaced of a falling out with then-assistant manager Steve Holland, although these reports have never been officially confirmed.

After Southgate stepped down following England’s Euro 2024 disappointment, speculation grew that White might return to the national team under Lee Carsley, who has taken over as interim manager.

England v Croatia – European Championship: Ben White of Brighton and England during the pre-match warm-up during European Championship Group D between England and Croatia at Wembley Stadium, London on 13th June, 2021. Copyright: Action Foto Sport

However, following England’s recent win over Finland, Carsley revealed that White has once again asked not to be considered for selection.

“I’ve not planned to talk to Ben White,” Carsley told reporters after the match. “We spoke about this in the squad selection. Every player that’s eligible to play for England is in with a chance. As far as I’m aware, he has asked to be not contacted.”

White’s absence from the national team is notable, particularly given his exceptional performances for Arsenal. Last season, he missed just one Premier League game as Mikel Arteta’s side mounted a strong title challenge, ultimately finishing runners-up to Manchester City.

Arsenal’s English defender #04 Ben White celebrates after scoring their fifth goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium in London on April 23, 2024. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

His agent, Alexander Levack, has hinted that a return could still happen, but no immediate plans have been confirmed. “It’s all ifs, buts, and maybes,” Levack told Sky Sports. “It’s just hard to comment at the minute. It’s not something we’ve spoken in depth about. So I suppose… wait and see.”

For now, White remains focused on his club career with Arsenal. The Gunners will need him at his best as they prepare for their first north London derby of the season against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. White’s versatility—capable of playing both at right-back and in central defence—has been crucial to Arteta’s tactical plans.