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Seven years after Arsene Wenger gave Jack Wilshere his break at Arsenal the manager has reaffirmed that the injury-struck midfielder remains a vital part of the club's plans.
The 23-year-old had been a rumoured target for Manchester City during his injury layoff but Wilshere has returned to the first team in fine form, impressing against Sunderland before scoring the goal of the season in a 4-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion.
His sparkling return has caused Wenger a selection headache ahead of this afternoon's FA Cup Final with Aston Villa but the manager is clear that he is pleased to see the development of a player he thrust into the first team at a young age.
“I made Jack Wilshere start at 17 years of age. That means that you cannot show a bigger desire of wanting a player," Wenger said.
"We have always extended his contract and we have been very patient with all his injuries. At some stage I think he must feel wanted. We always stood by him through every difficult moment. Does that mean we want him to stay here for a longer period? Yes, as we would like to benefit from his talent now.”
Wilshere has previously expressed his reluctance to leave the Emirates and Wenger's statement is likely to ward off any interest from interested parties in England and the continent.
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