England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended defender Ben White after he was booed by sections of the Wembley crowd on Thursday.
White came on as a substitute for his first England appearance since March, but received a hostile reception from some supporters. The reaction contrasted with the applause given to Croatia midfielder Luka Modric when he left the pitch.
The defender has previously faced criticism from England fans after leaving the national team’s 2022 World Cup camp in Qatar early for personal reasons. He subsequently made himself unavailable for selection under former manager Gareth Southgate until his departure after Euro 2024.
Tuchel, however, was quick to back the 28-year-old, insisting he deserved his place in the squad and had shown complete commitment since the German took charge.
“I didn’t hear the boos for Ben and I thought we were past that chapter,” Tuchel said. “I hope it doesn’t happen again. He’s a player of ours. Since I’m in charge he’s desperate to come and be with the group.”
The England manager also praised White’s contribution in training and his potential value to the team, making it clear that he had no doubts about the defender’s commitment.
“I can only judge him on what I see and what I experienced and it is on the highest level and he can really help us to win football matches,” Tuchel added. “He’s part of our group and we will protect our group. He deserves to be with us.”
Tuchel was also unconcerned that the negative reaction might affect White’s willingness to represent England in future, saying the defender had always appeared enthusiastic about joining the squad.
“I don’t think so. I don’t want to make it bigger than it is. He seemed to me always committed and always dedicated and excited to come into camp and get a call-up. There is no reason to doubt his commitment or his passion,” he said.
