Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta insists he knows ‘the reasons Benjamin White had to leave England camp’ during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
White was included in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad for the tournament but failed to play a single minute before returning home prematurely.
The 25-year-old left due to ‘personal reasons’ and has now linked up with his Arsenal teammates in the United Arab Emirates, where he helped his side win the Dubai Super Cup.
However, a report from the Daily Star claimed that White left England duty after a bust-up with assistant coach Steve Holland.
The report also claimed White ‘became unhappy in the England camp and struggled to mix with his fellow teammates’.
Asked if he could elaborate on the claims, Three Lions manager Southgate said: “Well, not really.
“What I’ve been shown was alleged and there was another word that was used.
“I think by commenting on the story I could be giving it any form of credibility, really.
“We explained why Ben left the camp and I think it’s important that that is respected, really.”
Arsenal boss Arteta has discussed having White back in his squad after he was allowed to stay in England following his Qatar departure.
“Very pleased,” the Spaniard said following his side’s 2-1 win against AC Milan. “Everybody has been giving him a lot of support and love.
“We know the reasons he had to leave the camp. We are delighted to have him back and he looked in really good shape.”
On the stories questioning White’s character, Arteta responded: “We can’t control that.
“I know who Ben is, what he needs, what his character is and how happy we all are to have him at the club.”
Arteta continued: “I’ve been having conversations with all the players at the World Cup.
“Not only with Ben but with all the players to try to give support when somebody needs it.”
Arteta also said the club are “very active” in looking at potential signings in the winter transfer window, with Arsenal top of the Premier League and obviously hoping to stay there.
“We are looking and we are very active looking at the possibilities,” he said.
“If we can find the players that can strengthen the team we will try.”
The Gunners have been linked with Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix following the injury to Gabriel Jesus.
Jesus is expected to miss up to three months of action after undergoing surgery on a knee problem he sustained at the World Cup with Brazil.
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