Will the returning Jack Wilshere struggle to fit into this Arsenal side?

It’s been a while since we’ve seen such a cohesive team performance in the Premier League. Against Southampton, Arsenal turned in what must have been the best collective performance of this fledgling season and sent out a warning message to all those who have chosen to deny their potential this season.

Particularly impressive is the way the Gunners midfield is working together as a unit. At the centre of this Mikel Arteta and Santi Cazorla, whose free-flowing passing games seem to have made Arsenal a potent force once more. Cazorla, Arsenal’s latest Spanish purchase, in particular has an almost Cesc Fabregas-esque ability to work space for himself and then pick out a killer ball. He’s been absolutely deadly thus far this season and has firmly lodged himself in Wenger’s first team plans.

As for Mikel Arteta, though he’s not quite so explosive a player as his compatriot, he’s just as important. He’s played further back this season (in a similar role to that of Michael Carrick over at Manchester United) and has excelled in winning back the ball and then finding a man in a red shirt. He’s the link between the midfield and the attack and he too has made himself irreplaceable.

Then there’s Abou Diaby, Aaron Ramsey, Francis Coquelin, Emmanuel Frimpong and Tomas Rosicky (when fit) all raring for a place in the first team. Will Jack Wilshere be able to clamber past these bodies and win back his place upon his return to fitness? The jury is out.

The 20-year-old prodigy has struggled with injuries since receiving a knock during the Emirates Cup and most Arsenal fans are waiting with baited breath for his return. According to The Mail, he’s back working with the ball again in preparation for joining up with the first-team for training.

But I think he’ll have a particularly tough time getting past Abou Diaby, if the lanky Frenchman can stay fit. He was absolutely imperious against Liverpool and looks to somehow have found the best form of his career, despite the fact he’s been injured for what feels like half a decade. He’s strong, graceful and athletic – qualities that a half-fit Wilshere won’t be able to replicate. At the moment he’s what Arsenal need.

It may sound like blasphemy to suggest leaving him out of the team, but the youngster has to re-earn his place in the squad. Only when he’s the best possible option should he be considered for a regular slot in the first team. How long that takes, is up for grabs.

What’s your take? How long will it take for Wilshere to break back into this Arsenal side?

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