Mikel Arteta says Ben White has received “a lot of love” after it was revealed he decided to not join up with the England squad during the international break.
Gareth Southgate confirmed White spoke with the England boss to inform him that he did not want to be selected for the national side for the friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.
And despite some backlash, Arteta says White has been backed by his Arsenal team-mates.
“I think he has received a lot of love. You just have to see what his team-mates and everyone close to him in football says. I think people have respected him,” said Arteta.
“Hopefully he can represent his country in the best way possible one day. That’s up to him.”
Arsenal have the small matter of Manchester City to focus on, as the top two sides clash this weekend in a massive game in the Premier League title race.
Arteta confirmed that Arsenal trio Gabriel, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have not trained, but could still feature.
“Yeah there is a chance. They haven’t trained. Tomorrow we have another session, but there is a chance they can be available,” said the Arsenal boss.
“It’s a massive game for both teams. It will give us a huge boost again if we go there and win it. Still, there is a long way after to make the ground to win it.
“I have full belief and trust in my players and what we’re trying to do. It’s something that we have to show on the pitch.”
