The Gunners were without Thomas Partey, Gabriel Magalhaes and Ben White against Chelsea and Manchester City. Their absence was evidently felt as Arteta’s men had to endure embarrassing losses at the hands of the last season’s Champions League finalists. However, apparently, all the players are now fit and back in contention.
In addition to that, Mikel Arteta has toyed with the idea of bringing an old fan favourite back to the club in the name of Jack Wilshere. Arteta has insisted that Arsenal’s “doors are always open” for Jack Wilshere as he continues his search for a new club. (Goal)
Wretched Injury Ridden Career Of Wilshere
Wilshere initially began his career at Arsenal in 2008, emerging as one of the most talented young midfielders of his generation under Arsene Wenger. He was running rings around the likes of Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets at the tender age of 19. He solidified himself as a first-team player very quickly.
Wilshere made 198 appearances over the course of his stay at Arsenal having won two FA Cups and a Community Shield. He also managed to score 14 goals while setting up a further 30 for his teammates, and won 34 caps for England when at the peak of his powers.
However, injuries held him back from reaching his full potential. He left the club in 2018 before going on to take in underwhelming spells at West Ham and Bournemouth. However, the Englishman is currently unemployed at the age of 29.
Why Would Arsenal Consider Wilshere
Arsenal currently have Partey, Xhaka, Elnenny and Lokonga in their ranks. However, Xhaka’s disciplinary concerns will haunt the Gunners as long as he is there while Mo Elnenny cannot be considered more than a squad player at this point. That leaves Partey and Lokonga as the only options for Arteta. Lokonga looked promising during the first three games, however, his lack of experience will probably cost the Gunners at some point.
Thomas Partey will be unavailable during January as he will join his national team for African Nations Cup. Keeping that in mind Mikel Arteta might opt to bring in Jack Wilshere to fill the gaps. Wilshere will do a good enough job in the middle of the park with his mazy dribbles and accurate passing. However, his leadership qualities on the field and aggression will help the subdued Arsenal squad massively. He will do himself a massive favour and do Arsenal one too if he gathers the confidence for one last time.
Arsenal Boss has offered the 29-year-old a potential olive branch having built up a good relationship with him as a player in North London between 2011 and 2016. Wilshere played under the captaincy of Mikel Arteta and formed a good partnership. As a result, Arteta mentioned in the press conference on Thursday: “[He is] someone that I know, that I shared the dressing room with. Someone who is so loved around the club with every person here and our doors are always open.”
