Andy Townsend names three England right-backs he believes are better than Arsenal star Ben White

07/25/2024 12:52 PM

Arsenal defender Ben White is not even in the top three right-backs in England amid a potential return to international football.

That is the view of ex-Chelsea and Aston Villa star Andy Townsend amid reports that White is considering a return to Three Lions duty following Gareth Southgate’s exit.

The Arsenal star ruled himself out of selection for the England squad ahead of Euro 2024 with club director Edu Gaspar communicating the decision to Southgate.

It comes after a mysterious bust-up during the World Cup in Qatar where the right-back left the camp early, which was the last time he was part of the England squad.

But Townsend reckons White would have a tough time getting back in the England XI – even if he was allowed in the first place – with the Three Lions possessing a few good talents there.

Speaking to Jamie O’Hara on talkSPORT Breakfast on Thursday morning, Townsend said: “I am not sure Ben is better than a fit Reece James, I don’t think he is.

“I don’t think Ben certainly isn’t a better right-back than Kyle Walker. I don’t think Kyle was at his best at the [Euro 2024] tournament.

“Trent [Alexander-Arnold] I think is miles better than White for me.”

O’Hara seemed surprised at the last comment from Townsend, who insisted White had a brilliant season for Arsenal.

Townsend continued: “He played very, very well and he has got that. I am not disputing the fact that he is a good player, Jamie.

“If England, after what we’ve seen this summer, are looking to kick on and find other dimensions to get over the line in a competition, I don’t think it is playing Ben White at right-back, I don’t think he is that type of player.

“I think it is something else so I am not sure he figures above those guys anyway.”

White had a fine season for Arsenal last season and was a major part of Mikel Arteta‘s backline that conceded the least goals (29).

The former Brighton star also forged a brilliant connection with Bukayo Saka on the right-hand side, contributing four goals and four assists in 37 Premier League matches.

Walker and Alexander-Arnold also enjoyed fine seasons, where they picked up the Premier League and Carabao Cup at Manchester City and Liverpool respectively.

James, meanwhile, had a tough campaign at Chelsea where another injury-stricken season meant he only played ten times in the Premier League.