Gibbs-White responds to criticism over Dubai video after England call-up
Morgan Gibbs-White has stressed that representing England remains his priority after a social-media clip filmed during a holiday in Dubai drew criticism following his late international call-up.
The Nottingham Forest midfielder was added to Thomas Tuchel’s squad after five withdrawals. His fiancée, Britney de Villiers, shared a video in which the pair mimed along to a song from High School Musical while reacting to the news.
Quick facts
- Gibbs-White joined England’s squad after five players pulled out.
- He played 13 minutes in the 3-2 loss to Spain.
- The 25-year-old then made a nine-minute substitute appearance in a 2-0 win over the Czech Republic.
- England are due to face Croatia on October 3 and the Czech Republic on October 6.
- Gibbs-White’s long-term target is a place in the squad for a home European Championship.
Gibbs-White said the video was simply part of the couple’s usual humour and was not intended to show any reluctance about answering England’s call. He explained that they had tried to find some levity in an awkward moment for de Villiers and their children.
The midfielder said his fiancée understood the situation, while his stay in Dubai was cut drastically short by the summons. He said he spent more time travelling by plane than on holiday, adding that playing for his country comes first without question.
His two substitute outings have given him an early opportunity under Tuchel, although a regular midfield place will be difficult to secure. Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon are among the established attacking options competing for England roles.
Gibbs-White has been a central figure for Nottingham Forest, but he recognises that the demands of the international side differ. He described England’s set-up as more structured, with players expected to carry out defined positional responsibilities even when match situations require adjustments.
He will hope for further involvement against Croatia on October 3 and the Czech Republic three days later before returning to Forest. Beyond this camp, Gibbs-White said the squad’s focus is on winning a home Euros as Tuchel shapes his group for future major tournaments.
