Wilshere lauds team unity after win

Arsenal under-18s head coach Jack Wilshere lauded the unity of his team following their impressive 3-0 victory over Reading on Saturday afternoon.

With goals from Dan Casey, Luis Brown, and Osman Kamara securing a fifth consecutive win in all competitions, Wilshere highlighted the strong team spirit that has evolved within the squad.

“The big thing for me is the unity of the group. I didn't feel it as much at the start of the season; it takes a while to build as new players come in, and the first years from last year become second years. There are different roles and responsibilities. Now, I can feel it within the players and staff, and we're pushing every week to get better.

“I don't think it was our best performance; we lacked control in some instances, and I thought we played a lot better last week. But, we had nice moments throughout the game and scored three good goals.

“We're in a good place at the moment, and we want it to continue. But, that's the challenge — can we be consistent and push on from here? It starts from the way we train, which is paramount for the players to learn and get better.”

Reflecting on Dan Casey's debut, Wilshere emphasised the importance of healthy competition for places in the starting lineup.

“That's the Arsenal way. When I was playing, I knew I had to be good because there was someone a year younger or underneath me who would push me, and that's the most important thing.

“For example, Harrison Dudziak was playing for the U21s last night, and Casey's come in and scored a goal, putting pressure on my selection as I have two players playing well. If we can keep doing that all around the pitch, the players will get better.”

Wilshere concluded by underlining the significance of our next game, where we will face Liverpool away in the FA Youth Cup fourth round.

“It’s a knockout competition, so it changes the thought process and the mentality of the players.

“We know it'll be a tough challenge, but if we keep building the levels in training and maintain strong unity, then I believe we can go out there and win the game.”