Arsenal have announced a new long-term contract for Ben White on the same day that England boss Gareth Southgate will name his next England squad.
White has signed a deal until 2028 with the option of a further year in a timely reminder to his international manager.
The right-back has been in great form for Arsenal this season, featuring in all but one of their matches in all competitions.
He has started 30 times across the Premier League and Champions League as the Gunners push to end their four-year wait for a trophy.
England squad: Arsenal have sent a timely reminder to Gareth Southgate
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White has not been in recent England squads after leaving the Qatar World Cup in December 2022.
England said he left for 'personal reasons' but reports afterwards claimed he had a falling out with a member of staff.
Southgate has not confirmed whether that was the case but has chosen not to pick him for the last 15 months.
He will name his squad for the friendlies against Brazil and Belgium at 2pm on Thursday and it remains to be seen whether White will be recalled.
Three hours before the squad announcement, Arsenal ensured White was in the news for a positive reason.
The north Londoners announced his new contract this morning, with manager Mikel Arteta delighted to secure the defender's future.
Arteta said: "It’s great news that Ben is committing his future to the club.
"Ben is a key player for us, a top professional with a winning mentality, and one of the guys who leads by example every day.
"Ben’s ability, determination and positive attitude are so important, but he is also a great character and human being.
"We all look forward to continue working with Ben in the coming years."
Arsenal sporting director Edu also expressed his pleasure at seeing White sign a new deal.
The Brazilian commented: "We are so happy to have completed a new long-term contract with Ben.
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England squad: Ben White hasn't been in recent Three Lions squads
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"Since Ben joined us, his contribution and commitment have been of such high quality.
"Our supporters love him, we love him and we look forward to enjoying Ben’s performances with us for years to come."
England haven't played since the two Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia last November.
On that occasion, Southgate claimed White was behind other players in his position.
England squad: Ben White has signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal
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He said: "I assume (he's up for selection). Ben's been very solid for Arsenal this season. He is a different profile of full-back, a centre-back playing at full-back.
"He's doing a good job for his club, he's just behind a couple of others in the reckoning at the moment."
