Considering his skill, talent and ability, Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere has been under a great deal of criticism recently. He may be his country’s great hope for the future, but that doesn’t mean the Press are going to cut him some slack.
First the newspapers stirred up a storm in a teacup by running pictures of Jack Wilshere taking a puff on a cigarette. Then young Jack made a noose for his own neck with his comments on nationality and the English national team.
Whilst I personally don’t agree with what he had to say, I think the whole affair was blown out of proportion. It’s not really Jack’s position to make such claims, but he was lead into it by journalists. He’s a passionate young lad, who just happens to have got the wrong end of the stick.
Interestingly enough, all this criticism has come at the same time as a serious up-turn in form for the 21-year-old. It’s like he’s using all his personal angst to fuel his performances on the pitch.
He’s scored two goals in his last two games and his performance against Norwich City in particular was spectacular. His goal must surely be one of the best team goals of the Premier League era. The number of audacious flicks, clips and back-heels involved in the move was somewhat overwhelming.
But his all round performance was good too. Jack’s a real asset to this Arsenal team, because he’s not afraid to run with the ball, commit defenders, and find the gaps in behind. There’s a reason why he attracts more tackles than just about anybody else in this Arsenal squad. He’s fearless, plays a risky game and people know just how dangerous he can be.
This brings me to The Star‘s claim that Barcelona have added Jack Wilshere to their list of potential replacements for Xavi (33) and Andres Iniesta (29).
Barca have never been shy when it comes to chasing Arsenal players. Their pursuits of Cesc Fabregas and Alex Song were tedious, manipulative and frustrating. I hope that Jack doesn’t get embroiled in one of their transfer sagas.
By now it’s clear that Wilshere is a keeper. At a young age he’s already a world-class talent and could yet develop into one of the best midfielders in world football. He’s also loyal to Arsenal, hard-working and a fan favourite.
So why would Arsene Wenger sell? If Barcelona do come knocking, I hope they’re sent on their way.
What’s your take? How important is Jack Wilshere to this Arsenal side?
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