ARSENAL star Ben White didn’t watch football when he was growing up.
And old habits die hard as the defender still doesn’t watch the sport he’s devoted his life to.
The England international, who was today named in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man World Cup squad, explained that because he was always playing the game, there was no time to sit down and see it on TV.
The 25-year-old told Sky Sports: “No I never watched football when I was younger, still don’t now.
“I just loved the game, I was always playing it – never watching it. So I don’t know too much about older generations.”
And that explains why White isn’t aware of Gunners legend Patrick Vieira, despite donning his iconic No4 shirt since joining Arsenal for £50million from Brighton last year.
White added: “I know [Vieira] was a very good player.
“But I wouldn’t know the details. I’m quite busy, I’m always doing something.”
Although watching football isn’t one of his hobbies, White did admit that he does reflect on games he’s played in, to assess his performances or catch a glimpse of the Three Lions in action – albeit just for a short moment.
He went on to say: “I watch myself for analytical reasons. I watch England, maybe. I just wouldn’t just sit down and watch a game.”
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White also claims that because he dedicates so much to football, it’s the last thing he wants to focus on when he gets home.
The ex-Brighton star continued: “It’s so intense, you come in every day and give 100 per cent.
“All I want to do is go home and not think about it. Come in fresh and ready to give 100 per cent again.”
