Conor Coady admits he is 'saddened' by Ben White's decision to snub Southgate

Conor Coady has admitted that he is 'saddened' by Ben White's decision to turn down the chance of playing for England this month.

Gareth Southgate revealed that the Arsenal defender did not want to be considered for selection for their upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.

The 26-year-old has not featured for the Three Lions since he left their World Cup squad in 2022 after reports of issues between him and coach Steve Holland.

Coady, who has also not been included in an England squad since the tournament in Qatar, has revealed what White is like to have around in the England camp.

He told BBC Radio 5 Live: 'When I was in the England squad and he was, he was a great character to have around the place.

'He is a great lad, first and foremost. How he trains, how he goes on about his business, he is top top drawer.'

When asked if he is saddened by the situation, Coady said: 'Yeah, because I think he is a phenomenal player.

'What he is doing at this moment in time with Bukayo Saka down the right-hand side for Arsenal is, I think, incredible, and he deserves to play for his country.'

Southgate has denied suggestions that White left the England camp midway through the 2022 World Cup campaign due to a disagreement with Holland.

However, he was unaware as to why White does not want to be included and confirmed Arsenal were told of his decision to go public with the news.

There is now major doubt over White’s international future, although Southgate was at pains to say the door isn’t closed to the versatile defender.

‘We had a call from Edu last week to say that Ben didn’t want to be considered for England squads at this time,’ said Southgate, who accepts the 26-year-old is unlikely to change his mind before this summer’s