England star called up for the first time in four years after previously snubbing country

Ben White has received his first England selection since departing the 2022 Qatar World Cup under controversial circumstances. The 28-year-old Arsenal defender joins Thomas Tuchel's squad after Jarell Quansah withdrew due to a thigh injury ahead of the Wembley friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. White's last international appearance came during a 3-0 victory over the Ivory Coast in March 2022. The former Brighton player left the World Cup camp immediately after the group stage concluded, with the FA citing personal reasons at the time. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Gareth Southgate consistently dismissed reports of a confrontation between White and coaching staff. In March 2024, White declined a squad invitation and requested exclusion from international consideration. Tuchel, who succeeded Southgate, previously confirmed constructive discussions with the defender regarding his England return. Harvey Barnes has also earned a recall to the England setup for the first time in more than five years. LATEST SPORTS NEWS: Brentford players 'suffer injuries after rescuing man from alleged racist attack' following Leeds draw Weird football tactic needs to end after Arsenal lose Carabao Cup final to Man City Tennis row erupts as French star hits back after being accused of flirting with American player The Newcastle winger, 28, comes into the squad as a replacement for Eberechi Eze, who has been ruled out with a calf problem. Barnes won his sole England cap during a friendly against Wales in October 2020. The Burnley-born attacker qualifies for Scotland through his grandparents, and Steve Clarke attempted to persuade him to represent the Tartan Army at this summer's World Cup. However, Barnes turned down the opportunity to switch national allegiances and now stands poised for his second Three Lions appearance. White and Barnes now form part of an expanded 35-man England squad assembled by Tuchel. The enlarged group provides an opportunity for several players on the periphery of international selection to stake their claim. Leeds forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Everton's James Garner are among those set to be given chances to make an impression during the upcoming fixtures. The friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan at Wembley offer Tuchel the chance to assess his options with a broader pool of talent than typically available during competitive fixtures. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter

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