Declan Rice reveals 'secret' Ben White and Gareth Southgate talks after England snub
Declan Rice is hoping to persuade Ben White to reconsider his decision and play for England. Despite being a standout player for Arsenal this season, the 26-year-old defender hasn't been part of the Three Lions setup since the 2022 World Cup.
White left Qatar early due to «personal reasons», according to the Football Association, and there were rumours of a disagreement with Steve Holland. However, Gareth Southgate dismissed these claims when he announced his squad for the friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.
Now, Rice, who has been named captain for Tuesday's match against Belgium, hopes to convince White to change his mind. Speaking to talkSPORT, the former West Ham midfielder said: «When I go back and I'll speak to him and see.
»But hopefully he does change his mind on that because having a player like that in the squad who's performing well in the Premier League it'd be a great addition to the (England) squad."
White, who recently signed a new contract with Arsenal, has been playing exceptionally well for his club this season. Rice has shared his thoughts on the defender's versatility and how it could be a big plus for England. He said: «The only thing I can say is, it's Ben's life. It's Ben's decision.
»We can't argue with him with what he wants to do. Of course, there's always going to be people writing stuff, having their opinions on what they think."
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Rice added: «But at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is what he thinks and at this moment in time, he obviously doesn't want to play for England. I really hope he does (change his mind),
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