Back in action: Ben White has returned to club duty
(Picture: AFP via Getty Images)Mikel Arteta has backed Ben White following the defender’s return to Arsenal.
The England international left the World Cup without playing a game due to personal reasons amid reports White had fallen out with Gareth Southgate’s assistant, Steve Holland.
Southgate has denied such reports and the 25-year-old duly linked up with his club in Dubai as they prepare for the second half of the Premier League season.
While William Saliba’s breakthrough has forced White into a right-back position, the former Leeds and Brighton defender remains a crucial part of Arteta’s team.
White has started all 14 of the club’s Premier League games thus far, recording two assists even despite his positional change.
Speaking after his side beat AC Milan to win the Dubai Super Cup on Tuesday, Arteta issued a strong message of support towards his player.
“Everybody has been giving him a lot of support and love,” he said.
“We know the reasons he had to leave and it’s good to have him in good shape.
“I know who Ben is, what he needs, what his character is and how happy we all are to have him at the club.”
