Arsenal's Jack Wilshere has been ruled out of England's forthcoming friendlies against the Republic of Ireland and Brazil after Gunners boss Arsene Wenger confirmed the midfielder needs a minor operation on his ankle.
Wilshere will go under the knife at the end of the domestic campaign, which finishes on Sunday, meaning he won't recover in time for the international friendly fixtures.
The 21-year-old has been a substitute for Arsenal's last three Premier League games and is likely to be on the bench again for Tuesday's crucial clash against FA Cup winners Wigan at the Emirates Stadium.
Wilshere missed all of last season through injury and was sidelined for several weeks after a defeat at Tottenham in March.
Wenger on Monday confirmed the surgery, which will remove a pin inserted during a previous surgery, means Wilshere will spend several weeks recovering but should be able to return for the Gunners' pre-season campaign, which includes a tour of Asia.
"He will have small mild surgery after the season," Wenger said.
"At the moment Jack plays with painkillers and I use him only when it is really needed.
"It is a very small operation, taking out a pin. It is a two to three weeks job. It will not be a problem.
"Of course he will be disappointed, but he will go (to Brazil) next year (for the World Cup).
Hodgson will name his squad on Thursday ahead of the May 29 clash with the Republic of Ireland at Wembley and the June 2 meeting with Brazil in Rio.
Source: AFP
