Steve Holland's exit as England's assistant coach could pave a way for Arsenal star Ben White return to the national team following their spat.

The former Brighton player's decision to withdraw from international football was almost two years in the making, but it reportedly originated from a pointed remark made by Gareth Southgate's assistant.

As the now ex-England manager announced the national squad for upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Brazil in March, Southgate revealed that White had asked not to be considered.

It came after the Arsenal full-back left the England camp midway through the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to 'personal reasons', with later reports suggesting he had a bust-up with Holland.

Now, with Holland out of the picture, White could potentially make a move to return to the Three Lions after all. 

Ben White could potentially make a return to the England squad following the exit of England assistant coach Steve Holland

In March it was revealed that the rift between the pair was sparked by Holland questioning White's interest in football while England were in Qatar in November 2022.

Southgate's assistant reportedly asked Kyle Walker a question related to Manchester City 's performances in the previous season, before posing the same question to White in regards to Arsenal.

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The 26-year-old allegedly claimed he did not know the answer, leading Holland to claim that was down to his lack of interest in football.

The conversation is said to have happened in front of other members of the squad.

On November 30, a day after England beat Wales 3-0 in their final group game, the FA announced White had left camp and returned home.

According to the Telegraph, White was particularly upset by the public nature of the conversation, rather than by Holland's specific comment.

White has previously admitted he was never a football fan when he was younger and rarely watches matches to this day. 

Speaking in 2021, he said: '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.

'I know [Patrick Vieira] was a very good player. But I wouldn't know the details. I'm quite busy, I'm always doing something. 

'I watch myself for analytical reasons. I watch England, maybe. I just wouldn't just sit down and watch a game.'

In April, he reiterated the point when he revealed he did not watch Manchester City's 4-1 win over Liverpool, despite the fact Pep Guardiola's team and Arsenal were involved in the title race.

'I don't watch football so I was just focused on the game today and that was it,' White said.

'There's a lot of noise going on outside, and everyone is just keeping it very quiet and just getting on with what we are doing.

'I don't really know what's right or wrong, I have never been in this position [competing in a title race] before. So, we are just keeping quiet, heads down and working hard.'

Many fans were quick to see the funny side, with one writing: 'See you at the World Cup, Ben White,' while another said: 'The return of Ben White for England is here. The country is about to see what it’s been missing.'