‘I don’t respect him’ – Jamie O’Hara slams Arsenal star for recent decision

Jamie O’Hara stokes the fire ahead of the North London Derby by claiming that he does not respect Ben White after the Arsenal defender decided that he does not want to play for England.

Ben White doesn’t want to play for England

There is no doubt about White’s quality as a footballer, with the defender being a crucial piece of the jigsaw in Arsenal’s watertight defence last season and playing a key role in their title charge.

The 26-year-old will have a crucial role to play in the derby this Sunday if the Gunners are going to emerge with a win, with the Englishman likely to face the difficult task of trying to keep Son Heung-min quiet.

However, there has been plenty of controversy surrounding White’s decision to make himself unavailable for England, with manager Lee Carsley revealing that the defender has asked not to be contacted (BBC Sport).

Jamie O’Hara lashes out at Ben White

O’Hara unleashed on the Arsenal man for his decision, questioning how anyone can decide not to play for one’s country, given how short a career is.

The former Spurs man said on talkSPORT: “He doesn’t want to play for England. You don’t want to represent your nation, then fine. No problem. ‘But don’t expect any respect from anyone.

“He doesn’t want to play for his country. I respect it (his decision not to play for England). I don’t respect him. He is entitled to do what he wants, but I don’t respect him. How can you now want to play for your country?

“It’s the highest pinnacle of your career. If you love the game and you love football, everything about it is… ‘Can I play for England?’ It has been in the past (his ambition to play for England).

“As a footballer, that is part and parcel of your career, being away from your family, as Lee Carsley said, he hardly sees his family, but he understands the glory and satisfaction you get from walking out with your country.

“He plays for Arsenal. Everyone else is on international duty. He is going into an empty training camp or he goes away and has four days with your family.

“You can do that for 20 years after you retire. I don’t respect that he doesn’t want to represent his nation. He is a top football player – it is a big story and a big talking point.’”

Spurs Web Opinion

I do not think it is fair of us to criticise White without knowing his circumstances or the exact reason why he chose to do what he did. However, I do think that this is one of those decisions that the Arsenal man will look back on with regret once he hangs up his boots.

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