Thomas Tuchel responds to Ben White boos as Arsenal star jeered on England return | OneFootball

Versatile defender was a late, controversial call-up

White scored his first England goal, turning in from barely a yard out as the ball fell to him at the back post, and there were even louder boos when his name was announced after that goal.

"I heard that he was booed. I didn't hear it actually because I was involved in the changes and instructions," Tuchel said.

"It cannot be the majority. There were some boos and some mixed reception for him which I'm disappointed about because of course we protect our players.

"He was excellent in camp and he deserved to come on. He deserved also to start. Got us almost a winner.

"But I also understood that it happened to other players before here. So he needs to take it on the chin. We will always protect him."

White made himself unavailable for selection for the rest of Gareth Southgate's reign after the 2022 World Cup, but that stance changed once Tuchel took charge.

The German said on Thursday that White did not want to speak about his premature Qatar exit with him, though accepted the defender would have to clear the air with some of his team-mates.

White's Wembley reception indicated that a section of the England fan base needed to be won over too, but Tuchel called on the supporters to ensure there is no repeat of the booing.

"Hopefully we can put it behind because he's ready to write some new chapters and we're ready to give him the chance," the Three Lions boss said.

"Hopefully everyone can move on and accept it."