Arsene Wenger would have no problem with Jack Wilshere going to Euro 2016 because it would be good for his confidence.
The midfielder has not played since July but he is back in training with eight games of Arsenal’s Premier League season remaining.
England manager Roy Hodgson announces his Euro 2016 squad on Thursday, May 12 and - if Wilshere is fit - Wenger would welcome his inclusion.
"At the moment he’s not out running but there is no special concern from him, just to recover from his ligament strain. He should be available [for the Euros]"
Arsene Wenger
“You want your players to compete,” said Wenger. “When you’re a footballer you want to compete at the top level and what is important is that Jack, who is frustrated enough, regains confidence.
“It’s very important for his confidence that he can go to the Euros and he can play. It’s also important to have a player of his quality available.
“If he’s completely fit, no [it’s not a gamble]. When you’re a national team coach, you can take a gamble on one player but certainly not on five. Roy Hodgson has to consider the whole situation. You can certainly take a chance on just one player.
“I’m cautious with Jack now but to be back fully competitive, it will take a few weeks,” added Wenger. “Once he is completely fit and competitive he will be available for Arsenal and for the national team. Why not?”
Like Wilshere, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will be hoping that he makes the cut for this summer’s tournament in France.
“He should be available,” said Wenger. “At the moment he’s not out running but there is no special concern from him, just to recover from his ligament strain. He should be available [for the Euros].”
Jack Wilshere
Copyright 2024 The Arsenal Football Club Limited. Permission to use quotations from this article is granted subject to appropriate credit being given to www.arsenal.com as the source.
