Still only 20, Jack Wilshere’s reputation and potential importance to the future of English football ensured that his injury lay-off, lasting 16 months, was accompanied by almost daily bulletins in the national press as to the progress of his recovery.
Arsene Wenger has made no secret of the importance he attaches to Wilshere’s return to his team. Unlike in his breakthrough season at the Emirates of 2010/2011 – which followed a valuable four month loan spell at Bolton Wanderers – Wenger has erred towards caution in his use of the wonderfully gifted playmaker this term.
Wilshere remained in his seat on the bench as Arsenal thrashed about fruitlessly in search of a goal at Villa Park on Saturday – an admirable show of restraint from the manager who selected the then teenager to start in 31 Premier League and 7 Champions League matches two years ago. There will be a fine line for Wenger in guarding against further setbacks for the precocious Wilshere and ensuring the Gunners gain the maximum benefit possible from his unique talent.
It is Everton’s misfortune that, at a time when worries about the Merseysiders own thin squad are holding true and their form has turned a little stodgy, they will encounter a fully fit Arsenal team at Goodison Park with Wilshere at its hub.
The lifelong Gunner would improve any team in England and possibly Europe with his vision, fantastic passing ability, quick-thinking and game intelligence. The speed with which Wilshere has adapted to top-level football after his absence has been heartening with little sign that his various ailments will cause long-term problems.
A snippet of action in his last outing against Montpellier on a European night gave the greatest cause yet for belief that it won’t be long before the Number 10 is achieving the form which saw him outshine Barcelona’s famed midfield in February last year. Wilshere emerged with possession from a heavy midfield challenge – sure to have tested any lingering weakness – and began a flowing team move which he finished with a deft left-foot chip over the advancing Geoffrey Jourdren in the French visitors goal.
Wenger has outwardly rebuffed any suggestions that he is under personal pressure. Nevertheless, the Frenchman is in a familiar situation of shouldering the responsibility for leading a fragile side into a Champions League spot that the club can ill afford to miss. After tonight’s trip to Everton, Arsenal have a run of favourable looking fixtures which offer the opportunity to earn a slew of points and consequently close on that coveted top-four finish.
The likelihood of Arsenal securing the desired outcome from this swathe of matches will be greatly enhanced by Wilshere’s presence. There is little doubt the player himself will be desperate to avoid any more watching briefs, akin to that he suffered at Villa Park.
One thing’s for sure – Arsenal need him now more than ever.
What’s your take? Just how important is Jack Wilshere to both Arsenal and England?
For more from me, find me on Twitter @McNamara_sport, or check out my blog!
Introducing the neat little app that’ll pay you to view content tailored to your interests:
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.