Arsene Wenger has spoken about Jack Wilshere’s role at Arsenal (Picture: Getty)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has told Jack Wilshere what he can do to win his place in the Gunners’ first-team back after returning to the club from loan this season.

The England international spent last term on loan at Bournemouth after slipping down in the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium, and there doesn’t look an obvious place for him in the team again this year.

Still, Wenger appears to have given Wilshere some hope of returning to action for Arsenal ahead of this week’s Europa League game against FC Cologne.

The Gunners look likely to give more of their fringe players some playing time in this competition to avoid burn-out for the Premier League, with Wilshere one of those in contention.

Wilshere is back at Arsenal after a year on loan at Bournemouth (Picture: Getty)
Wilshere could get an opportunity in the Europa League (Picture: Getty)

And while Wenger would not guarantee the 25-year-old a place in his side, he told the player what he can do to earn another chance at the Emirates.

‘First of all to continue with the spirit with which he works. There was always huge pressure to come back as quickly as possible,’ Wenger said.

‘Overall if he can keep calm, focus on his job, he’s on a good way for me. He’s doing well in training, getting stronger and stronger each day.

Wenger believes Wilshere can win his place back (Picture: Getty)

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‘Every game is an opportunity for him, and this season is a good opportunity for him.’

Wilshere’s time at Arsenal has been plagued by injury, limiting him to just 17 Premier League appearances in his last two full seasons at the club.

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