Chris Waddle calls for lifetime England ban for Ben White following recall controversy

Former England winger Chris Waddle believes Arsenal defender Ben White should never represent the national team again, according to a report by Metro.

White recently addressed his exit from England’s 2022 World Cup squad, maintaining he stands by his decision while refusing to “throw anyone under the bus” over the circumstances surrounding his departure.​

However, Waddle criticized Thomas Tuchel’s choice to recall the 29-year-old for upcoming fixtures against Croatia and Spain. Speaking on the player’s return to the squad, Waddle argued that turning down international selection warrants a permanent exclusion from international duty.​

“When somebody turns down playing for their country, like Ben White did, to me that’s a lifetime ban. I’d say, ‘Forget it mate, on my watch you’re not getting back in’,”

Waddle stated. Despite fans booing White during his recent international appearance against Uruguay, Tuchel has treated the defender’s previous hiatus as a closed matter.