England defender Ben White has returned home from the World Cup for personal reasons

Ben White has returned home from the World Cup for personal reasons and isn't expected to return to the England squad for the remainder of this winter's tournament.

A statement on England's official website reads: "Ben White has left England’s training base in Al Wakrah and returned home for personal reasons.

"The Arsenal defender is not expected to return to the squad for the remainder of the tournament.

"We ask that the player’s privacy is respected at this moment in time."

#ThreeLions defender @ben6white has left England’s training base in Al Wakrah and returned home for personal reasons.

— England (@England) November 30, 2022

England are not allowed to call-up a replacement for White because all squad changes must be made before the tournament’s first match.

The absence of White means Gareth Southgate has just five centre-backs at his disposal for the remainder of this winter's tournament in Qatar – Eric Dier, Harry Maguire, John Stones, Conor Coady and Kyle Walker.

White, who has yet to make an appearance for the Three Lions in Qatar, has made 19 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions this season and has impressed for Mikel Arteta's side at right-back.

Following the news that White will return home for personal reasons, Arsenal wrote: "We're all with you, Ben."

White missed training on the eve of their Group B clash against Wales match through illness.

After reaching the knockout stages of the World Cup following victory over Rob Page's side, England will face Senegal on Sunday night at the Al Bayt Stadium.