What to make of Jack’s comeback! By Ash
Arsenal fought hard to scrape a 2-2 draw with Manchester City today, in a game that was anticipated to show which way the league will be swinging in the race for the top four. We were not at their best, but neither were they…
It’s been a common occurrence for both sides this season, although the most disappointing factor was the loss of Danny Welbeck to injury, we cannot ignore the shift that our number 10 put in today!
Welbeck’s loss through injury is a shame for both Arsenal and England, because the striker has played a very important part to the second of half of Arsenal’s season. When Oliver Giroud has not been delivering, the former United youth product has stood up to the challenge on more than one occasion, and his resilience to come back from a long term injury to perform so well is admirable. The same can be said for Jack Wilshere today, who completed the majority of the game, coming on as a substitute for the injured forward.
Like so many Arsenal players, Jack has struggled with constant niggling injuries that have largely restricted the continued growth of his development. However every time Wilshere returns from injury, the passion, drive and commitment he offers really lifts the team to perform to a whole new level. The midfielder likes to drive the ball forward with force and pace, something that Arsenal often struggle with doing effectively, instead maintaining sideways passing. Wilshere’s drive to move forward, is beneficial to the players and it offers a whole different style of play to what we normally see from Arsenal. Wilshere not only devotes complete effort in attack but he also tracks back to help defend and his work ethic in today’s game for a player that only weeks ago has returned from almost a season long injury, was outstanding.
Wilshere’s ability is valued so highly by the Gunners, it is just a shame the that England international is forever being withheld by injury. Arguably when fit, Wilshere should always be a part of the match day squad, even with such competitive midfield. The 24 year old offers creativity, passion and the ‘fight’ that so many Arsenal midfielders should desire but otherwise lack and the only issue we have is keeping him out of controversy and keeping him match fit.
Some have suggested that he should not go to the Euro’s with England this summer because of his lack of playing time but the idea that Hodgson would even think about choosing a player with just over 70 minutes of playing time this season, goes to show just how valued Jack’s quality is for both club and country.
Ash