Arsenal rocked by injury to key star in potential huge World Cup blow for England

Ben White has suffered an injury blow just weeks before the Champions League final.

The Arsenal defender was forced off during the first half of their clash with West Ham on Sunday.

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White came off worse in a challenge with Crysencio Summerville.

The England international was left stricken on the pitch as the Hammers raced forward on the attack.

He remained in agony once play had stopped, with the Arsenal medical staff providing treatment.

However, White was unable to continue and was replaced by Martin Zubimendi after limping off.

His potential injury blow could provide a selection headache for Mikel Arteta ahead of the Champions League final on Saturday, May 30.

The trip to face the Hammers marked White’s fifth successive start in all competitions for Arsenal.

World Cup blow

Meanwhile, it comes less than two weeks before Thomas Tuchel names his Three Lions squad for this summer’s World Cup.

White was recalled by the England boss in March after almost four years away from the national team.

The 28-year-old had not featured since leaving the squad early during the 2022 World Cup.

Gareth Southgate and interim boss Lee Carsley subsequently snubbed recalling White before his return under Tuchel.

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White scored his first international goal in the draw with Uruguay before starting against Japan four days later.

Tuchel is set to name his final England squad for the World Cup on Friday, May 22.

As for Arsenal, they remain in the hunt for two trophies this season with just three matches remaining across all competitions.

Following their trip to the London Stadium, they host Burnley next weekend.

Mikel Arteta’s side then conclude their Premier League campaign away to Crystal Palace on May 24.

Ahead of Sunday’s clash, they remained two points clear of Manchester City as they chase a first league title for 22 years.

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Meanwhile, they are into their first Champions League final since 2006.

The Gunners will aim to lift the trophy for the first time in their history against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest.