Why problems are still afoot for Jack Wilshere & have Arsenal learned their lesson?

When doctors talk about ankle fractures they are usually referring to a broken tibia or fibula. The tibia (shin bone) is the larger, weight bearing bone, transferring roughly 90% of weight through the leg. Wilshere’s fracture is likely to have been here. Successful surgery was performed on the stress fracture under the care of two-world renowned surgeons. An estimated 4-5 months rehabilitation was prescribed, with no weight to be put on the ankle for the first 12 weeks.

During a lengthy recuperation period such as this, the body undergoes a process called atrophy. This is a gradual wasting of muscle, leading to a reduction in strength and conditioning. When an athlete returns to training they must be wary of pushing themselves too hard as this is when the body is most at risk.

Lessons learned?

Ambitious and eager to prove himself at the highest level, Wilshere could be forgiven for being too keen to play again. The first question on any players mind when injured is “when can I play again”? On top of that Wenger will have been keen to get the boy playing again as the Gunners pushed for a Champions League spot. The medical staff should be able to overrule the manager in these cases as the player’s welfare is arguably more important. Such is the pressure of the modern game though, the manager usually gets what he demands.

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Low and behold, Wilshere suffered another stress fracture, this time in his heel, a notoriously difficult bone to mend. The club described the second fracture as “a recognised complication of a complex rehabilitation process”, i.e. they knew full well it was a risk rushing him back.

The club doctors will be keen to stamp out any adaptations in Wilshere’s waking / running style to accommodate for the pain; much of his ankles dexterity could be lost if not treated.

One thing Arsenal, and indeed every other Premier League team, can take from this situation is a need for clarity. Naturally the press want immediate answers, but being patient and delivering an accurate assessment is what fans really want.

Wilshere is a technically gifted player, his style of play very much influenced by his former teammate Cesc Fabregas. The intricate turns, close control and short, sharp bursts are integral to his game. Wilshere has already stated he does not want to put any timescale on his return and wishes to be given time. Without this he may well be plagued with ankle trouble throughout his career.

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