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White relishing variety in his game

You have to be adaptable says Ben, ahead of Tottenham clash.

By Bruce Talbot • 01 November 2020

By Paul Hazlewood
Ben White gets forward against West Brom on Monday.

Ben White says he is enjoying his new role after impressing for Albion since switching to midfield. 

The 23-year-old has been deployed in a more advanced role after starting the season in defence and could be used there again tonight when Albion take on Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. 

Leeds United coach Marcelo Bielsa utilised White in midfield for four Championship games last season but White revealed he spent much of his season-long loan in the same position during training sessions.  

“I am really enjoying it. Nearly all my training sessions at Leeds were in that position so it’s good. I do like getting about the pitch, making tackles and interceptions and being more involved in the game. It has helped me massively this season.  

"The way that Marcelo Bielsa wanted to play is that you follow your man and often I would get dragged forward into midfield so it’s a case of being able to cope with having the ball. You have to be adaptable, especially if there are injuries, and to be able to do a job for the team.” 

White, who signed a new four-year contract last month, admits returning to his parent club after helping Leeds win promotion to the Premier League felt like ‘joining a new club’ after spending the last two years on loan at Newport County and Peterborough before heading to Elland Road.  

“Coming back to Brighton, because I haven’t been here for so long, felt like being at a brand-new club. Obviously, the gaffer has changed and I am still settling in and trying to do the best for the team.

"But I have gone through the leagues on loan and I think it’s the right time for me to play for Brighton in the Premier League.  

"The gaffer has been really good. He's different to the managers I have experienced before. He’s easy to talk to, and you can get good feedback if you have any worries about things. He’s a very technical coach and wants to improve you as a player which I enjoy.  

“I’m happy where I play as long as I’m in the team. The gaffer knows what’s best and he’ll put you where he thinks you will benefit the team the most.”