Matthew Upson has claimed that Arsenal defender Ben White is ‘very light across the ground’, as he told BBC Radio 5 Live Sport.
Back in the summer, many questioned Arsenal for the transfer fee they paid Brighton for the 24-year-old, but fast forward to today and he is now surging towards the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
White was recalled to Gareth Southgate’s squad last week and he will be hoping he can now cement down a place in England’s first team.
- READ MORE: Fulham’s XI if they kept their top stars
By the time the 2022 World Cup comes about, White will be hoping to also be a Champions League player because Arsenal are also chasing a top-four place during these final few months of the campaign.
Nonetheless, former Arsenal defender, Upson, praised the quality White has at his feet and the versatility in his game.
“I think he has done very well for Arsenal,” said Upson. “I like his mobility. He’s very light across the ground. Reads the play very well.
“He’s a player that is very comfortable coming out with the ball. He is excellent at it. He is happy to play in midfield and drive with the ball.
“The number of times I saw him at Brighton, especially when he played wide as a three, the number of runs he made and end up offloading a pass in front of the opposition back four. He offers something different.”
White has showcased a great range of quality since swapping the colours of Brighton for Arsenal and his recent rise should be applauded.
It needs to be remembered that this is only his second full season in England’s top flight and he is showcasing his talents like he has been playing at the top level for years.
From his ability to be a hard-hitting defender and then drive forward in an elegant manner and start attacks.
On Saturday, he started England’s 2-1 win over Switzerland during their friendly encounter and started off in a back three for Southgate.
When the Three Lions boss changed to a flat back four, White then moved out as a right-back, changed gears and showcased his ability to motor up and down that channel.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
