Arsenal Football Club News

• Nickname:Gunners
• Founded:1886
• Manager:Arsene Wenger

• Ground:Emirates
• Capacity:60,432

Wenger drops Wilshere hint

22 Jul 2010 - 08:27:43

Click To Enlarge

Arsene Wenger has suggested Jack Wilshere will be part of Arsenal's first-team squad this season rather than head back out on loan.

The 18-year-old midfielder impressed while on loan at Bolton Wanderers during the second half of the last campaign.

The Trotters are keen to re-sign the highly-rated teenager, but Wenger has dropped a strong hint that Wilshere will stay at the Emirates Stadium this term.

Wilshere started Wednesday's 3-0 pre-season friendly victory over Austrian side Sturm Graz.

"At the moment, I want Jack to gain experience and, if possible, at Arsenal. I will give him a chance to play - now," said Wenger.

"I want to see if he can integrate with the first team. Of course, I will make that decision later. Ideally, it is better that he gains experience with us.

"Jack has done well. I am keen not to create too much hype around the young English players because they need to work hard.

"We do have outstanding English talent at this club, though."

Meanwhile, Wenger insists the door remains open for Sol Campbell to stay with the Gunners despite the out of contract defender also being offered terms by Sunderland and Celtic.