Gareth Southgate has named his England squad for the upcoming international break, with multiple Arsenal players involved as usual.

On Thursday afternoon, Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the upcoming March internationals was confirmed.

England are set to face Brazil and Belgium in a couple of friendlies over the break, playing both games at home. They’ll take on Brazil on Saturday, March 23rd at 19:00 GMT, and Belgium on Tuesday, March 26th at 19:45 GMT.

As expected, Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice have both been called up to the squad. Both are essentially nailed-on starters for Southgate’s side, and it’s no surprise to see them involved.

Aaron Ramsdale has also been called up, despite his recent lack of minutes for Arsenal.

The goalkeeper has only played one game for Arsenal in the last couple of months, starting in the 2-1 win over Brentford. He was criticised for a first-half error leading to a goal in that match, but praised for his reaction in the form of two key second-half saves.

Ben White is the most glaring omission, with the Arsenal starter in excellent form and clearly capable of significantly aiding Southgate’s England team.

But Southgate has confirmed that White has opted against being called up.

“We had a call from Edu last week to say that Ben didn’t want to be considered for England squads at this time,” Southgate said. “For me, that’s a great shame, he’s a player I really like.”

Other Arsenal absentees includes Emile Smith Rowe, whose last England appearance was in March of 2022, and Eddie Nketiah, whose only appearance was last October.

With neither player getting significant minutes for Arsenal and both playing in positions with plenty of competition, they were never likely to be called up.

The same goes for Reiss Nelson, Arsenal’s only senior English player without a senior England appearance.

The winger was previously a regular for the England u21s, but his bit-part role for Arsenal makes it difficult to break into Southgate’s squad.