Amongst all of the Robin Van Persie rumours this summer, there’s no doubt that the thought of Jack Wilshere returning for Arsenal has been very refreshing for Gunners supporters. However, despite initial hopes that he would be fit for the start of the new campaign, Arsene Wenger has now suggested that the 20-year-old is still a long way from fully recovering and may not make the first team until October.
After establishing himself in the 2010/11 season, Wilshire has progressed to become one of the most talented midfielders in the Premiership. However, he failed to play a single game last term after suffering a stress fracture to his ankle last summer. His absence was hugely significant for the Gunners and many were viewing his return this term like a new signing.
Unfortunately, supporters may have to wait longer than they had first imagined. In an interview, Arsene Wenger has stated that while Wilshere appears to be recovering well, he is almost positive that the player will not be fit for the start of the campaign. He said, “He is still in the gym. Any player still in the gym in July is not on the pitch in August, that is for sure. I don’t want to give him any precise deadline because that would put him under huge pressure. It will take some time to come back but let’s not forget Jack is 20 and that means you recover quicker than when you’re 32. If he has no medical problem, he will come back very quickly.”
With Wilshere sustaining the injury at such a young age and already suffering numerous setbacks during his rehabilitation, there are several concerns that the midfielder could have something of an injury-hit career. For this reason, no-one can argue with Wenger’s wish to ease Wilshere back into action and avoid as many risks as possible.
