Ben White's England snub has made him 'stronger than ever', claims Arsenal legend Lauren as he insists controversial decision is 'only a good thing' for Gunners ahead of huge north London derby

The versatile defender took the decision not to make himself available for selection when Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate was piecing together plans for friendly dates with Brazil and Belgium in March. Many have questioned why the 26-year-old would not want to represent his country.

White’s agent has spoken in defence of his client, saying critics need to know the full story before speaking out, and Arsenal are happy to let their current first-choice right-back decide what is best for him and his ongoing career.

Lauren, who filled a full-back berth for the Gunners between 2000 and 2007, has - speaking at Ladbrokes Fanzone's North London Derby mural – said of why an international snub stands to benefit player and club: “I've been a big supporter of Ben White for the last few years, not just because of his recent performances in an Arsenal shirt. First of all, he was under so much pressure when he came to the club, because they paid £50m for him. Then, you've got to consider he's been asked to play in a position he hadn't played in often. I can remember the first time I saw him at the Emirates, I think it was against Leicester - from that moment all he's done is prove himself as a top, top defender. The only thing I can say about Ben White is that I'm so proud of him. I've been a supporter of his ever since he arrived, and I've never doubted his quality.

“It's a real shame he's not a part of the national set-up - we don't know exactly why that is. He would be a great option for England, especially heading into the Euros, but if that's not going to be the case then, while it's a real shame, being selfish, I honestly don't mind - because it means his sole focus is on Arsenal. Ben White not playing for England is only a good thing for Arsenal supporters. That was the turning point in his Arsenal career, though, in my opinion... when he decided to leave the national team. That situation made him stronger, I believe. He's stronger now than the player who was playing for the national team, 100%. He's stronger than ever, and I love it. I love it.”

The artwork for the mural Lauren was speaking in front of was completed by Neverland and Helton Mattei. The pair also worked on the hugely-popular Welcome to Wrexham series.

White has earned four caps for England, having made his debut against Austria in June 2021, and was included in the Three Lions’ squad for Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup. He did not figure at either tournament, having withdrawn before the latter got underway, and is now focused on trying to help Arsenal to Premier League title glory – with a derby date away at Tottenham next on the agenda for them.