Ben White has been drafted back into the England team squad, while Eberechi Eze has withdrawn due to injury ahead of upcoming international friendlies.
The late changes were confirmed as England manager Thomas Tuchel adjusted his squad for matches against Uruguay and Japan. White returns to the national setup for the first time since 2022, replacing injured defender Jarell Quansah, while Newcastle winger Harvey Barnes comes in for Eze following his withdrawal.
White’s recall marks a significant moment in his international career after a prolonged absence that followed his early departure from England’s 2022 World Cup camp in Qatar. The Arsenal defender had since made himself unavailable for selection under former manager Gareth Southgate but recently indicated his readiness to return.
Eze’s withdrawal is understood to be injury-related, forcing Tuchel into a reshuffle just days before the friendlies. Barnes’ inclusion offers the Newcastle attacker an opportunity to add to his limited international appearances, having impressed at club level this season.
White, who has earned four caps for England, will now look to re-establish himself in the squad as Tuchel continues to assess his options ahead of the 2026 World Cup. His versatility across defensive positions is seen as a valuable asset for the national team setup.
The changes come at a crucial time for England, with Tuchel using the friendlies to evaluate fringe players and build squad depth. With injuries affecting key personnel, the recall of White and the inclusion of Barnes highlight the manager’s willingness to reintegrate players and test new combinations as preparations intensify for upcoming major competitions.
