Tuchel urges England fans to stop booing Ben White

Thomas Tuchel has urged England fans to put their past disagreement with Ben White behind them and stop booing the Arsenal defender, who has returned to the national team. White could face another hostile reception if he features in either of England’s two matches during the November international break.

Tuchel said he understood fans’ disappointment over White’s previous absence from the national team, but said the player had shown his commitment and quality at the March camp, performed well and scored a goal. He added that his return had not been easy and that he had sensed a desire and enthusiasm in him to come back, while White is absent from the latest camp.

White had been away from the national team following a previous disagreement with a member of Gareth Southgate’s coaching staff, before Tuchel brought him back into the squad. He is one of five Arsenal players called up for England’s latest matches, and the coach’s confidence in him could give him a chance to establish his place in Tuchel’s plans.