Trevor Sinclair has claimed that Ben White has showcased ‘resilience’ in Arsenal colours after a ‘difficult’ start to his career.
The former England winger thinks White has now formed a ‘fantastic’ partnership with Gabriel at the heart of Arsenal’s defence.
At the start of the season, after three defeats from their opening three matches, no one would have batted an eye-lid if Mikel Arteta was sacked.
But, those in the Emirates boardroom, kept faith in Arteta and his call to bring in unproven stars, such as White from Brighton.
Whilst the 24-year-old’s transfer was questioned, it’s now looking like a top purchase, as Sinclair shared his thoughts on the player and his performance for England yesterday, as he told talkSPORT.
“Ben White, this season, it started off difficult for him at Arsenal,” said Sinclair. “Big price-tag. But, again, he has shown that resolve to get back on the pitch and to start putting in consistent performances.
“The relationship he has got with Gabriel is a fantastic partnership. That shows, he has got the resilience to bounce back from difficult situations.
“I would yes, he’s made a mistake (v Switzerland). As a defender, if you are going to stand in front of the attacker, then you must feel him. You must have your body open, so he can’t see your number. If you can’t see him, then you can touch him and know where he is.
“He didn’t do either. He looked at the flight of the ball, thought it was dropping a little shorter, took a step forward and then he was reeling. He doesn’t know where Embolo is. A little bit of mistake, but that’s how you learn.”
White earned a re-call into Gareth Southgate’s squad following his performances for Champions League-chasing Arsenal.
The ball-playing defender started England’s 2-1 win over Switzerland, which also saw him move out at right-back in the second half.
That’s a position the Arsenal faithful have seen him play this term on two occasions, but despite being out of his comfort zone, he thrived.
When White returns from national duty, it will be the last leg of his side’s dream to secure a top-four finish.
Arteta has two big games – against Tottenham and Manchester United coming up – which could just be the difference in whether they secure top-four or not.
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