Ben White of England avoids knee surgery but playing in FIFA World Cup doubtful

LONDON: England football team defender Ben White has avoided surgery after suffering a knee injury during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over West Ham, however, as far as his playing for the side in the upcoming FIFA World Cup is concerned, his chances are very low.

Arsenal confirmed on Tuesday that the 28-year-old sustained a “significant medial knee ligament injury,” ruling him out for the remainder of the season as the club continues its Premier League and Champions League campaigns.

White’s return to the England squad earlier this year came as a surprise after he had not represented the national side since 2022 amid reports of a disagreement with the previous coaching staff. He later featured in matches against Uruguay and Japan, and scored in a 1-1 draw against Uruguay.

England manager Thomas Tuchel is expected to announce the World Cup squad on May 22. England will play warm-up matches against New Zealand on June 6 in Tampa and Costa Rica on June 10 in Orlando before beginning their World Cup campaign.

England’s Group L journey starts against Croatia on June 17 in Arlington, followed by matches against Ghana in Boston on June 23 and Panama in Foxborough on June 27.