Ben White's agent slams criticism of Arsenal defender's England snub

The agent of Arsenal defender Ben White has urged critics of his decision to reject a place in the England squad to "be kind" as they do not know the full story.

White left the England camp during the 2022 World Cup for "personal reasons" and has not represented his country since, even going as far as to reject a call-up during the latest international break, much to manager Gareth Southgate's public dismay.

His decision has attracted significant criticism from a number of England supporters but White's agent has now taken to social media to stick up for the right-back.

"Whilst I appreciate that Ben is in the public eye which brings its own connotations and leaves you open to criticism I wanted to make the point that every elite performer, whichever field that may be, is a human being who has the same feeling we all have and experience good and bad," Alex Levack wrote after White's star showing in Arsenal's 5-0 win over Chelsea.

"No one knows what is actually going on in one's life so I really believe people should think before making a judgment or criticising these elite performers in public. Ben has shown unbelievable robustness and strength throughout this adverse period off the pitch and has blocked out all the noise and has performed incredibly well on the pitch, in a situation where many others could have and would have wilted."

Levack added: "Ben has an incredible temperament and attitude which allows him the ability to navigate through his working and personal life. I suppose the main message is be kind to people as you do not have the full facts, which in Ben's case neither Ben nor I wish to vocalise publicly, and do not know what is going on in people's personal lives so again please be kind."

Much of speculation surrounding White's decision not to represent England has revolved around an alleged bust-up with assistant manager Steve Holland, although Southgate has strongly dismissed claims of an issue between the pair.

Southgate has left the door open to White for a future with England and will be keen to re-introduce the 26-year-old, who has been one of Arsenal's top performers in recent months.

White bagged his fifth and sixth Arsenal goals during the 5-0 dismantling of Chelsea and is easily enjoying the best campaign of his career, racking up four goals and five assists across all competitions.

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