“It’s going really slow at the minute and obviously I’m really frustrated,” he said about his spell on the sidelines. “I should be back in training by mid-December, then I can crack on and it’s up to the boss when he picks me.”
Wilshre suffered a stress fracture in his ankle in June while playing for England. The injury did not respond to rest and he underwent surgery to correct the problem in late September. It was thought that he would be out until at least late February, but the latest news accelerates that timetable.
If he returns to training by December, he could appear in competitive action at some point in January. His return will provide a significant boost his club. Manager Arsene Wenger rebuilt its midfield following the departures of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri. Wilshere’s presence will only improve the rejuvenated Gunners.
The 19-year-old became an Arsenal regular last season. He made 35 appearances in all competitions for his club and his performances earned him international recognition. He appeared six times for England and was close to locking down a place in manager Fabio Capello’s starting lineup when injury struck him down at the end of last season.
If Wilshere continues to progress at this rate, he could become one of England’s shining lights and one of Europe’s top midfielders. He vowed to remain in Arsenal red when asked if he intended to stay with the club he joined as a nine-year-old.
“I promise that, yeah. I’ve been at the club since I was nine and learned to love it,” he said.
“From the [Patrick] Vieira days, to [Dennis] Bergkamp, [Cesc] Fabregas, I’ve watched them come through and move on. There’s a crop of new players, [Aaron Ramsey], myself, Kieran Gibbs … hopefully we can really create something special. I love the club and I want to be part of its future.”
Thumbnail photo via Flickr/Fid aka Theo
