Arsenal: Mikel Arteta confirms Ben White boost ahead of potential England comeback | OneFootball

Defender could start first game in months as Gunners host PSV

Ben White has worked his way back up to fitness after undergoing surgery in November

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Your matchday briefing on Arsenal, featuring team news and expert analysis from Simon Collings

Sign up

I would like to be emailed about offers, event and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice.

Ben White is ready to make his first start since November when Arsenal host PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday.

White underwent knee surgery in November and he was out of action until February 22, when he came off the bench against West Ham.

The 27-year-old has made two more substitute appearances since then for a total of 18 minutes and he is now ready to start.

Arsenal are hosting PSV on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, with the Gunners 7-1 up on aggregate.

“I think we have to manage him very well because he was still having some issues to manage in terms of the load,” said Mikel Arteta.

A start for White would be timely given that Thomas Tuchel is due to name his first England squad on Friday since taking charge.

Tuchel has held talks with White, who has not played for England since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Talks: Thomas Tuchel could bring Ben White back into the England squad this week

Getty Images

The right-back has been in a self-imposed exile from the England setup since leaving the camp during that tournament.

Tuchel previously said that he would reach out to the 27-year-old and talks are now understood to have taken place between the pair, although it remains to be seen if White changes his stance or makes the squad.

White has excelled at right-back since joining Arsenal from Brighton in a transfer worth up to £50million in 2021 and can also play at centre-back or in midfield - versatility which is likely to appeal to Tuchel.

Arteta is expected to make changes to his team for Wednesday’s clash with PSV as Arsenal are hosting Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday.

“It is unique [being 7-1 up on aggregate] but as well understanding how the game was played a week ago and the fact that everything went in the right direction for us from the beginning,” said Arteta.

“And we’re going to have to end the right tomorrow to go in the same direction, so fully focused on that.”