Ray Wilkins tells 25-year-old to leave Arsenal: He’s too good for the bench
The former Chelsea and Man United midfielder wants Jack Wilshere to quit Arsenal to protect his World Cup chances
Jack Wilshere has to leave Arsenal to protect his chances of securing a spot in England’s World Cup squad, Ray Wilkins says.
The Gunners midfielder returned to the Emirates Stadium in the summer following a season-long loan move to Bournemouth last term.
Wilshere made two assists in 25 appearances in the Premier League last season before a broken leg cut his season short.
The injury-prone midfielder has been limited to largely appearances in the Europa League and domestic cup competitions this season.
However, the 25-year-old has tended to impress when called upon following four substitute appearances in the Premier League.
The Arsenal star’s only assist came in the Premier League despite making seven games in the League Cup and the Europa League.
Former Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder Wilkins believes Wilshere needs to seek a new challenge to help secure a place in the World Cup.
“He has so much to offer Arsenal,” Wilkins told sportingbet.
“I’m baffled by Arsene’s comments that Jack should be in the England set up when he can’t step up and put him in the first team for Arsenal. Jack has to leave for me. It’s evident he’s only playing a bit part, and he’s too good for that.
“I get a little bit miffed by that, because if it doesn’t change – he needs to leave.”
Arsenal finished in fifth place in the Premier League table last season to miss out on a place in the Champions League.
The Gunners signed France striker Alexandre Lacazette in a £52m deal from Ligue 1 side Lyon.
The north London outfit brought in Bosnian defender Sead Kolasinac on a free transfer from Schalke 04.
