Ben White returns to Arsenal training for the first time since leaving England's World Cup squad

Ben White has been pictured in training with Arsenal following his early exit from England's World Cup party.

The defender left the squad early due to personal reasons, and manager Gareth Southgate had to rubbish reports his departure was due to a clash with assistant manager Steve Holland.

He is now back with his Arsenal team-mates ahead of the assumption of the Premier League in two weeks' time, and the day after England's elimination from the World Cup.

Southgate, speaking on the supposed bust-up, which was reported by the Daily Star, said: 'What I've been shown was alleged and there was another word that was used.

'I think by commenting on the story I could be giving it any form of credibility, really. We explained why Ben left the camp and I think it's important that is respected, really.'

According to the newspaper, Holland was unimpressed by White's lack of preparedness in a pre-USA team meeting, with the former Leeds and Brighton man reportedly lacking knowledge of his own personal stats.

It was also reported that White showed a poor knowledge of England's opponents, whom they drew 0-0 with in their second group game.

White was also said to have been uncomfortable at England's base and struggled to gel with his team-mates. The decision for him to be released home was mutually agreed, it was reported.

'We ask that the player's privacy is respected at this moment in time,' the FA statement said.

His club then tweeted: 'We're all with you, Ben.' Several Arsenal players have since posted messages of support to the 25-year-old on social media.

England may have lost to France on Saturday, but Arsenal return to action on Boxing Day, when they will take on West Ham at the Emirates.

White is likely to feature in the game, but Mikel Arteta may be without star defender William Saliba amid France's progression in Qatar.