Should Arsenal risk Benjamin White vs Leeds?

Arsenal head into Sunday’s crucial clash against Leeds United off the back of the news that Mikel Arteta has signed a new contract, tying him to the club until 2025.

It’s obviously a massive talking point building up to an enthralling climax to the Premier League season in which Arsenal have the potential to finish as low as sixth in the table or as high as third.

Right now the only aim is securing Champions League football, which he stated in his interview after signing the deal, and in his pre-match press conference ahead of the game.

While that was obviously the dominant topic, the small matter of injuries and availability came up, including crucial news on the progress of Benjamin White who missed out entirely from the 2-1 win over West Ham with a thigh hamstring.

Should Arsenal risk Benjamin White vs Leeds? Mikel Arteta reveals that the central defender is in contention to feature in the Premier League on Sunday

The £50m recruit has been an ever-present in the side this season, clocking up more minutes than any other player, and his absence for the run-in is one to fear. Fortunately, Arteta provided a positive update on White’s situation.

"“Ben White is still in contention so he needs to train tomorrow to make sure that he’s available to play,” the manager said."

This is far from a declaration of availability, although being in contention should only be viewed as positive. However, it’s happened already this season where players have been aggravated injuries when the squad was depleted and they were forced to play, which can’t happen with White.

Rob Holding was the hero in east London as he scooped the man of the match award for his performance, and unless White is 100% fit to start the game there should be no reason to rush him back.

As the more talented of the two centre-backs, the biggest game of the season against Tottenham awaits just a few days after facing Leeds. That’s the one White has to be available for.

In these situations the case is simply if they player is fit, he plays. But given how vital White is to the team, for a home fixture against Leeds Arsenal might just be able to afford giving him that touch extra rest to ensure his fitness for the derby.

If there are no concerns about him, then play him. But if he’s just on the edge, it might be best to err on the side of caution.