Reece James was forced off in Chelsea’s 2-0 Champions League victory over AC Milan on Tuesday night, with scans revealing ligament damage which is expected to rule him out for between six and eight weeks.
The right-back has started England’s last two games but appears to have little chance of being fit for England’s opening World Cup game against Iran on November 21.
With Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold ruled out for up to two weeks after picking up an ankle injury in last weekend’s defeat to the Gunners and Kyle Walker battling back from groin surgery, the Three Lions’ abundance of right-back options are now looking a little depleted.
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While Kieran Trippier is able to operate in his more natural right wing-back role, the form of Ben White has elevated him to the head of a list of possible solutions for Gareth Southgate.
The 25-year-old missed out on the England squad for the Nations League clashes with Italy and Germany but has arguably been the best right-back in the Premier League this season, starting all nine of the leaders’ league games.
His ability to slot in at centre-back makes him a versatile option going into Qatar 2022, something Arsenal fans have been keen to point out following news of James’ diagnosis.
Do you agree that Ben White should make Southgate's squad? Pick your England squad below and give your thoughts in the comments.
Here’s what they have been saying on Twitter:
@AshDigsFilms: If Southgate is insisting on having a right back who doubles up as a centre back in the starting line-up, I don't see how Ben White doesn't walk into the team now that James is likely out.
@AbassKK: Only Southgate would find another way to not include Ben White after this.
@artofwingplay: If you think Ben White doesn't provide attacking output you need to watch more Arsenal games.
@HKORS14: Surely Ben White is picked for England.
@Gunnersc0m: He should've been called up already, but surely Southgate has no option but to include Ben White in the England World Cup squad now.
@ActiveGooner: Perfect role for Ben White. Next best RB in the league based on performances this season.
@EzanSulejmani: Ben White is your man Southgate.
@coygcharlie: If Reece James is injured, Ben White starting at the World Cup isn’t even a debate.
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