Arsenal fans, do you remember Jack Wilshere? Don’t worry if you can’t remember where he is; Wilshere is busy getting back to full fitness while the best of his supporters are wondering when he will be back in action.
Wilshere, still only 23, has long been touted as the next ‘big thing’ for England. Naysayers always doubted if this is some judgment that was made in haste. To his credit, Wilshere has shown glimpses of his potential in Arsenal and England colors. To his naysayers’ credit, those glimpses were few and very far in between.
‘The between’ of his glimpses are littered with frustrating injuries. The latest ankle injury meant that he has not yet played this season. He had initially been ruled out for two months.
Arsene Wenger is a known admirer of the England international, although he is not short of options in midfield. Wilshere is back in training but Wenger doesn’t expect him to be ready for England’s European qualifiers against San Marino and Switzerland.
Wenger said: “I would believe that is a bit too optimistic to think he would be available for England. It’s too early.
“After the international break he has a chance but before the international break he has no chance.”
The games in question are slated for September 5 and 8. Losing Wilshere to injury is nothing new for England Roy Hodgson but he would be disappointed a little. Wilshere is a key member of his squad and Hodgson views him vital for Euro 2016 plans.
The increasing discussion of Wilshere is nothing new for Arsenal fans. The frustration among Gunners’ fans is valid because the only thing consistent with Wilshere is his tryst with injuries. Whether he has the potential to keep wowing everyone isn’t proven – at least not at the Emirates.
Early in the transfer window, there were rumours that Manchester City would be bidding for Wilshere as they look to increase their English quota. It didn’t pick pace to interest anyone. At the rate he’s spending time away from game action, one can’t stop from wondering if Wilshere would be missed if he did leave Arsenal?
Sridhar