Sol Campbell told Super Sunday on Sky Sports (22/08/21 at 1:35 pm) that it’s a ‘concern’ that Ben White is going to miss Arsenal’s home tie against Chelsea today.
The Highbury legend was told by Sky presenter David Jones that rumours across the Emirates claim that White is ‘unwell’ and he won’t be making his home debut for Arsenal.
Last Friday, it was a difficult start for White as Arsenal were beaten by Brentford and a lot was made about the club’s big summer signing coming up against Romelu Lukaku.
The Chelsea striker, who has returned to the Premier League from Inter, was Thomas Tuchel’s big money capture and expected to feature at the Emirates.
But it seems as though Lukaku won’t be battling against White, as Campbell reacted to what he was being told by Sky presenter, Jones.
“There are concerning reports around the Emirates about Ben White in the build-up to this game,” said Jones. “There are reports that he is missing today because he is unwell. How much of a concern is that?”
Campbell responded: “Well, it’s a concern. I think you have to look at his health. You have to follow the rules. It’s a big loss for Arsenal really.
“Big money. For me, at centre-half, I would really want to play in this kind of game to really test myself. The home crowd, so the fans can see what you are made of.”
This was supposed to be the big first test for White and a platform to showcase to his critics why they paid all that money for his ball-playing talents.
And whilst he won’t be able to prove himself today, there are plenty of other top-quality Premier League number 9’s ready to lock horns with White.
It will be interesting to see who Mikel Arteta now plays instead of the England international because Pablo Mari, who started the opening game, has to be in contention.
Perhaps Arsenal fans will see Calum Chambers, who played at right-back against the Bees, switch to the heart of the club’s defence.
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