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Ben White and Harvey Barnes recalled by England for March friendlies

Few expected to see Ben White and Harvey Barnes back in England colours this month, yet the door has swung open, and both players now have an unexpected opportunity to stake a claim for this summer's World Cup. However that door now looks firmly closed for one former regular.

23.03.26, 12:30 Updated 27.03.26, 15:36 2 Minute Read

Chris Eldergill

Chris Eldergill

Arsenal defender Ben White is back in the England squad, replacing Jarell Quansah who along with Eberechi Eze has withdrawn. Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes has been recalled, coming in for the injured Arsenal star, who missed yesterday's League Cup Final.

White made his senior England debut in June 2021, earning four caps and being selected for both the Euro 2020 squad and the 2022 World Cup, though left Qatar early for personal reasons; reported to be due to a disagreement with coach Steve Holland.

He publicly made himself available for England duty, after Thomas Tuchel was appointed as head coach. White explained “I’m definitely available. I spoke to him a few times and he’s such a nice man, very honest.”

White's reintroduction is further evidence that Trent Alexander-Arnold is not part of Tuchel's plans this summer. The Real Madrid star came off the bench to provide an assist for the winning goal in a 3-2 win over city rivals Atletico Madrid last night. After the match he posted on Instagram in Spanish: "Real Madrid and nothing else".

Barnes won his only senior cap in 2020, off the back of impressing with the England under-20s. He hasn't featured again for the senior side since making his debut as a substitute against Wales in October that year.

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Chris Eldergill

Chris Eldergill Former CNN International Sports Editor with extensive World Cup experience. Chris brings a broadcaster’s editorial discipline and the leadership of someone who has run news at major tournaments.

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