The Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere believes that survival in English Premier League requires ‘absurd’ fitness levels.
The English international has had his trysts with injuries throughout his short career. Sometimes the supporters wonder if the 23-year-old has spent more time on the medical table than the most of his colleagues (except Abou Diaby and perhaps Theo Walcott).
Wilshere hopes that the new season brings an injury-free campaign to him. He missed the majority of the last season on account of his ankle injury he incurred during the match against Manchester United in November.
It was disappointing to note that his career is littered with more injuries. Back in November, it looked as if Wilshere will be out for the whole season. But, he recovered and made his return towards the end of the campaign and he helped Arsenal retain the FA Cup in May.
Looking back at his career and his rush at careers, Wilshere thinks that the physical demands of the league require immense fitness levels. He believes that the intensity level of the Premier League is much more than the other leagues of the World.
Wilshere feels that the time off from the team is tough because of the work with the physios, the specialists and the work in gym. Of course, he is eligible enough to speak on the matter thanks to his rate of injuries.
He is back in pre-season training and feels that he is much better now than what he was from his first injury. Wilshere believes that his core strength is much better now and helps his balance better.
Wilshere is an important player for Wenger and also England. Most of the supporters would be frustrated with his long standing injury concerns but that can’t take away the fact that he is precociously talented.
At the prime of his form, Wilshere can command respect and marshal the midfield at will. This is one reason why Wenger keeps faith in him and hopes that he stays injury-free.
It was not long ago that he was linked with a move to Barcelona as the replacement for Xavi and Iniesta. Wilshere may not have exhibited the levels of consistency that would warrant this move but the talent is always there.
The coming season is crucial for him in more counts than one. Wenger will be hoping to mount a challenge for the Premier League title and Wilshere will be central to his plans. This is also the year of the Euros and so Roy Hodgson will be hoping that Wilshere stays injury free.
How will the season pan out for Wilshere? Will he be able to conjure a year without injuries?
Sridhar