Rio Ferdinand: Arsenal star is one of the best we’ve seen in recent years
Rio Ferdinand explains what he wants to see from Jack Wilshere in an Arsenal shirt this season
Rio Ferdinand has challenged Jack Wilshere to live up to his potential at Arsenal as the midfielder tries to hold down a regular spot in the first team at The Emirates.
The Arsenal midfielder made his first start of the season in the Premier League for the Gunners on Wednesday night during the goalless draw with West Ham United.
Wilshere has been aiming to break back into the first team at The Emirates after having impressed in the Europa League for Arsene Wenger’s men.
The 25-year-old has struggled with a series of injuries over the last few seasons and hasn’t been able to hold down a regular spot in the team after he was shipped out on loan to Bournemouth last term.
Wilshere will now be hoping to hold down a regular spot in the first team in Wenger’s side and he was in impressive form during the goalless draw in east London on Wednesday night.
Former Manchester United defender Ferdinand is clearly a huge admirer of the midfielder, but says it’s now time for him to start delivering on his potential.
Speaking to BT Sport on Wednesday night, Ferdinand said: “Receiving the ball, he is one of the best England have seen in the last two years. His touch, his awareness…
“But it’s what he does after that that’s really going to amount to what he is. Is he going to affect games enough in terms of assists and goals?
“He’s someone who can run with the ball and take on opponents. You want to see assists and goals in that position and that’s what he needs to bring to his game on a consistent basis.
“And he needs to stay fit.”
Wilshere will be hoping to start again for Arsenal when the Gunners return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon with a home clash against Newcastle United.
