At 26 years old, Ben Whiteman is a dedicated midfielder for Preston North End (PNE) and an ardent supporter of Manchester United. Known for his commitment to football both on and off the field, Whiteman’s life revolves around the sport he loves. He is married to his long-term partner, Sarah, and they have two young children. Whiteman’s dedication to his career and family is evident, as he balances his responsibilities at home with his professional commitments. His estimated net worth, built through his football career, endorsements, and other ventures, is around £2 million.
Struggles This Season
Whiteman’s journey this season has been marred by injuries and suspensions. After joining PNE in January 2021, he quickly became a key player, known for his ability to control the midfield. However, this year has not been smooth sailing. Whiteman has missed six matches, three due to injury and three through suspension, including a red card in a crucial home game against Luton Town.
Reflecting on his recent challenges, Whiteman expressed his frustration, saying, “It’s been a frustrating couple of months—injuries, playing, getting sent off—it’s sort of been a stop-start second half to the season for me.” Despite these setbacks, he remains optimistic, focusing on his return to the pitch and aiming to contribute positively to his team’s performance.
A Lifelong Manchester United Fan
Whiteman’s love for football extends beyond his professional career. He is a passionate Manchester United supporter and follows the team closely. Discussing United’s recent successes, particularly under the management of Erik ten Hag, Whiteman praised the team’s new signing, Casemiro, highlighting his impact on the squad. “Casemiro has been the signing of the season,” he said, acknowledging the debate around Erling Haaland’s performances but standing firm in his admiration for the Brazilian midfielder.
Difficulties Watching From the Sidelines
Being sidelined due to injury or suspension is challenging for any dedicated athlete, and Whiteman is no exception. Watching his team play without him, especially during difficult matches, has been tough. He witnessed PNE struggle in a goalless draw against Hull City and a similar result against Coventry City. The turning point came during a dramatic comeback victory over Wigan Athletic, where PNE recovered from a poor first-half performance to secure a much-needed win.
Reflecting on this period, Whiteman shared, “You saw half-time (vs Wigan) and how the crowd reacted. It is obviously not a great feeling, but again, it is one of them where you have to take it on the chin and ride with it.” His comments underscore the emotional rollercoaster that players experience, particularly when they are unable to contribute on the pitch.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges faced this season, Whiteman remains hopeful and determined to make a strong comeback. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on performance, both individually and as a team. “I’m massive on performance,” he stated, expressing confidence that PNE is starting to find their rhythm again after a challenging period.
Whiteman’s commitment to football, his team, and his fans is evident in his approach to overcoming obstacles. As he looks forward to returning to full fitness and regular play, he remains an integral part of PNE’s plans and a player to watch in the coming matches.
Conclusion
Ben Whiteman’s journey this season highlights the resilience and passion that characterize his approach to football. Despite facing setbacks, his dedication to the sport and his team remains unwavering. As he continues to navigate the challenges of the season, Whiteman’s love for football and his commitment to improvement serve as an inspiration to his teammates and fans alike. With his return to form, PNE supporters can look forward to seeing him back in action, contributing to the team’s success in the league.
