Jack Wilshere is all set to be ready to play at Euro 2012, it has been announced at Arsenal HQ today. Assuming his recovery from a long term injury continues to go to plan, then the young midfielder should be all set for an England recall just in time for the tournament. Of course, it’s always great news to have your best players available for tournaments, but in his absence England’s midfield has developed into a force he may not find it easy to return to. A resurgent Steven Gerrard played alongside the brilliant Scott Parker and the man nobody seems to want to drop, Gareth Barry, in the last England match, and with Lampard, Rodwell and perhaps even a surprise recall for Man United’s Paul Scholes in what would be the most amazing comeback since Mickey Rourke.
Wilshere needs games. Wenger today said that he’ll be training with Arsenal’s first team in three weeks and playing in full games in around five weeks time, leaving limited opportunities for Jack to show his fitness in time for close season. Wenger has also dismissed the idea of him making an olympic appearance, “The Olympics destroys the start of the season for us. If he could play, we would rather he went to the Euros than the Olympics”.
Wilshere is still only 20 years old, and looks set to become a driving force in the national team for years to come, thank goodness for youngsters like him still finding their way into the England fold. Perhaps, though, it may be wise to be extremely cautious with a young lad who has spent a lot of time on the sidelines; we certainly shouldn’t rely on him for performances and form after so little game time, and though he’d make my squad any day, perhaps it may be wise for him to start the tournament on the bench.
England selection aside, we cant wait to see Jack back in action. Also, check out the photo below for perhaps the coolest piece of football merchandise ever.
