Jack 'thought he'd never get back': Returning Wilshere frustrated by rate of recovery

Posted Saturday, September 22, 2012 by Dailymail

Jack 'thought he'd never get back': Returning Wilshere frustrated by rate of recovery
Getting stuck in: Wilshere (centre) will be eased back into Arsene Wenger's first team plans

The Arsenal manager, preparing for Sunday's league clash at Manchester City, said: 'He has had ups and downs, maybe more downs over the past 14 months.

'We have to be cautious because he has been out for a long time and it takes a while to get back to match fitness.

'I have never had any doubts, but when you are so young, and to be out for that length of time, is a good test of mental strength. 'I didn't doubt he would be back, but you would have to ask him if it crossed his mind - I would say yes.

'I am certain he will be a better player. If you have this type of injury after the age of 25 it is different. 'After three months competition I am sure he will be back to his best. It takes time to find that little burst again.'

Wilshere will continue to work at Arsenal's training ground in the coming days and will play in a development match for the Under 21 team when he is fully fit.

That is for the future, but Wenger is still juggling off-field matters with his players ahead of Sunday 's match against champions City.

Although Wenger insisted on Friday that Theo Walcott's continued absence from the starting line-up has nothing to do with his aborted contract talks, the issue is no closer to being resolved.

The Arsenal winger, a regular last season, has been on the bench ever since he refused to sign an extended and improved offer to stay at the Emirates.

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