Wenger backs Wilshere
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has backed young player Jack Wilshere to have a big season at Arsenal and for England.
Wilshere played very well during the Emirates Cup, an event that is held in pre-season each year by Arsenal. Wilshere is now pushing for a place in the Arsenal team ahead of their first Premier League game of the season.
Wenger is a firm believer in the policy that younger players have to be blooded in sides as early as possible if they are going to improve and move up to the right level.
Wilshere has a number of qualities that have seen him do well at Arsenal in his career so far. He also gained a lot of experience during his time on loan at Bolton last year. However, he is still a very young man with lots to learn and it could be a while before he gets a shot at international level.
The player
Wilshere as a player possesses a high number of attributes that would make him a key youth figure at any club. He is not the biggest of players and relies on having very quick feet and a quick minds to get him out of trouble. He's constantly looking round the pitch so he can get rid of the ball and dart into space.
He was not afraid to go out on loan last season whereas some youth players prefer the security of the club that owns them. His time at Bolton meant he got a chance to play in Premier League games and he will now be used to so many of the things that English football demands.
He seems a very hungry and determined young man. He has not given many interviews during his time at Arsenal but everyone at the club seems to agree that he has the determination needed to make it in the red and white shirt.
Wenger said: "Theo Walcott was at the World Cup at 17 years of age; he had not played one game in the Premier League, and it didn't kill him. To play at the top level, you have to deal with these kinds of situations. I believe he is stronger than last year, physically, and the few months he played at Bolton has given him something."
Lots to learn
Many have said that Wilshere is starting to play how Cesc Fabregas played when he first got into the Arsenal team. However, he is still very young and has a lot to learn.
Teams will find ways to play against him and he cannot rely on a comfort zone or a certain playing style. There will be times when he has to be a little more aggressive if he does not want to be bullied off of the ball. He'll also have to learn about when and where to conserve energy because of the pace of Premier League football.
Wenger added: "He will be used at the club, of course. The problem at that age is to be patient; you don't have patience. If you look at the number of good players we have in midfield, nobody can guarantee a position to anybody – So if I was in your place, I would have no hesitation, and invite him to play very quickly for England."
Betting advice
Wilshere will most likely get a chance at some point during the season. Wait until he starts a Premier League game and then quickly get a bet on him to score. The odds will be long but he could surprise you and make you a bit of cash in the process.
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