Ben White returns to England squad after 3-year absence as Thomas Tuchel names 35-man list, while Eberechi Eze withdraws injured

Arsenal defender Ben White has been recalled to the England national team after more than three years away from international duty, marking a major return under new manager Thomas Tuchel in what is being described as the Ben White England return.

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White, 27, has not featured for England since a 3–0 friendly victory over Ivory Coast in March 2022. He later left the national team camp during the 2022 FIFA World Cup for personal reasons and remained unavailable throughout Gareth Southgate’s tenure.

The defender has now been included in a 35-man England squad named by Tuchel ahead of upcoming international friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium on 27 and 31 March respectively.

The Ben White England return comes as Tuchel begins reshaping the national team setup, with several changes made to the squad list for the upcoming fixtures.

White replaces Jarell Quansah, who withdrew due to a thigh injury sustained during club duties. Despite limited Premier League appearances this season, White has remained active in European competition, featuring regularly for Arsenal in their UEFA Champions League campaign.

He also started in the recent EFL Cup final defeat to Manchester City, highlighting his continued importance in Arsenal’s defensive setup.

Meanwhile, Eberechi Eze has been ruled out of the squad due to a lower-leg injury, leading to the inclusion of Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes.

Barnes, who has previously earned one senior England cap, joins the squad in strong form after scoring 14 goals across all competitions this season.

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The England squad announcement marks one of Tuchel’s first major decisions since taking charge, as he evaluates players ahead of a new international cycle.

The Ben White England return is expected to spark debate among fans and analysts, particularly given his long absence from international football and the competitive depth in England’s defensive options.