‘Poor’: Ian Wright has criticism for Arsenal star despite 4-1 win over Leeds United

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Ian Wright has told Premier League Productions that Ben White showed “inexperience” to concede a penalty against Leeds United on Saturday. Arsenal ran out 4-1 winners, but Wright was critical of White.

White, 24, returned to Elland Road for the first time as an Arsenal player. Joining the Gunners for a fee of £50million in the summer from Brighton, the ex-Leeds loanee played in the Carabao Cup win over the Whites earlier this term.

On Saturday, Mikel Arteta’s side propelled themselves into the top four with a 4-1 win against White’s old side. Gabriel Martinelli got a brilliant brace, while Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith-Rowe also got their names on the score sheet.

White has proven his transfer fee in his 17 Arsenal appearances. The England international has formed a brilliant partnership with Gabriel, helping the Gunners keep nine clean sheets in those 17 outings.

Arsenal legend Wright, though, criticised White for diving in and conceding a penalty – which Raphinha scored. He branded the decision to tackle a “poor” one, and urged White to stay on his feet.

“It’s a poor challenge. Stay on your feet there, Ben. You don’t need that kind of pressure. Don’t go to ground, did he slip? I don’t know. This is what I’ve said about the inexperience, a young team. A more experienced defender stays up.”

Wright on White: Arsenal star getting better, despite Leeds penalty

White is improving with every minute he plays for Arsenal. While there will be lapses, given it is only White’s second season in the Premier League, he is already proving his transfer fee.

His technique and ability on the ball is good enough to see him play in midfield – which he did at Leeds and Brighton. What he is still learning, is defensive positioning and when to tackle, and when to stay on his feet.

That will come with experience. But at 24, he is well below his peak and is only going to get better.