Arsenal defender Ben White had a mixed evening against Uruguay at Wembley as he made his first appearance for the Three Lions since controversially leaving the camp during the 2022 World Cup
Thomas Tuchel
Thomas Tuchel speaks after England's draw with Uruguay(Image: ITV Football)
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England boss Thomas Tuchel slammed fans that booed Ben White as he made his long-awaited England return. The Arsenal man was handed a 20-minute cameo against Uruguay on Friday evening at Wembley.
It marked his first appearance for his country since walking out midway through the 2022 World Cup. White had a rollercoaster return, having been booed onto the pitch after being introduced as a substitute.
He then scored the opening goal, before giving away a late penalty which was dispatched by Real Madrid's Federico Valverde. Speaking about his return to the fold, Tuchel told ITV: "Too good to be true!
"When he scored the winner which was then not the winner and then he is maybe a bit too tough and greedy in his defensive actions but still I think it's not a penalty.
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"It would have been nice to keep the clean sheet and take another win but it will not change my opinion on the match."
White did not get the warmest of receptions from supporters inside Wembley. His name was booed as he was introduced as a substitute.
Fans also booed as his name after he was announced as a goalscorer by the stadium announcer. And Tuchel took aim at those responsible.
Asked if he hopes White's performance has flipped the script, Tuchel replied: "I hope so. I think has happened before to some players here which is disappointing because I think it does not help no one.
Ben White
Ben White thought he had scored the winner for England vs Uruguay(Image: Getty Images)
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"I think it was mixed reactions, some cheered, some booed. I was not even aware of it but people told me now. I was in the tunnel, I did not hear it but hopefully it is settled."
England team-mate Harry Maguire was full of praise for White and his performance. He said: "Crazy scoring the first goal. I thought he was brilliant when he came on.
"I can't say anything about the defending for that one [the penalty] - if that was me I'd be trying to block the shot. He's been good all week in training, great energy in the camp and he got his rewards tonight with the goal. He was brilliant when he came on."
England are back at Wembley on Tuesday evening as they host Japan for another friendly. They will then turn their attentions to their preparations for the World Cup.
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