According to a report by Metro on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, former England international Chris Waddle has strongly criticised Thomas Tuchel's decision to recall Ben White to the national team, arguing that the Arsenal defender should never represent the Three Lions again after his controversial departure from the 2022 FIFA World Cup camp.

White was named in Tuchel's latest England squad on Friday ahead of the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain. His selection has reopened discussions about his previous withdrawal from international duty, with Waddle questioning whether the defender should have been given another opportunity.

The former Tottenham Hotspur winger, who earned 62 caps for England, believes representing the national team should be treated as a responsibility that players must not take lightly. Speaking to iGaming.com, he made it clear that he disagreed with White's inclusion.

"Listen, Ben White shouldn't be in the England squad, that's my opinion. He refused to represent his country. I'm surprised Thomas brought him back in, and I don't get why he has."

Waddle went further by suggesting that refusing an international call-up should have permanent consequences, even if the national team later experiences difficulties in a particular position.

"There might be a shortage of full-backs, but 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’."

White's absence from England dates back to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, when he left the squad. The Football Association described his departure as being for personal reasons. He subsequently informed then-manager Gareth Southgate that he did not wish to be considered for selection.

Tuchel has now decided to reopen the door for the Arsenal defender, partly because of England's injury problems and changes in the full-back positions. Explaining his decision, the German manager highlighted White's performances at club level.

"He missed the last camp. He is the standout player for Arsenal in a position where we struggle with injuries, somehow, and we have a lot of changes."

The England manager also acknowledged the negative reaction White received from some supporters during his previous international appearance against Uruguay in March. The match at Wembley ended 1-1, with White scoring before conceding a stoppage-time penalty.

However, Tuchel believes the defender deserves an opportunity to rebuild his relationship with supporters.

"This gives Ben the opportunity to impose himself again. He deserves to open a new chapter and deserves positive feedback from the crowd."

White has started five of Arsenal's first six Premier League matches this season and recorded three assists in seven league appearances. Nevertheless, he faces competition from Jurrien Timber for the right-back position under Mikel Arteta.

His recall has therefore generated different reactions, with Tuchel backing his footballing ability while Waddle believes his previous decision to withdraw from England duty should not be overlooked.