It’s not often that Arsene Wenger shows his hand when playing ‘transfer window poker’, but his latest comments have definitely left an impression on the fans.
Whilst talking ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash against Stoke City, the boss confirmed that he may be resigned to letting Jack Wilshere leave the club.
When questioned on the future of the 25-year-old, who has been with the club since 2001, Wenger couldn’t promise there would be a lengthy contract extension waiting for him.
Wilshere enters the final year of his current deal and so far there’s been no suggestion that a new deal will be offered to him following a series of lengthy and troublesome injuries.
Despite picking up 29 appearances in the league last season after heading on loan to Bournemouth, there’s no assurances that Wilshere is a sure-fire option in midfield.
Wenger has always been a huge fan of the guy he’s seen grow from his early years as a teenager, and although he wants him to stay for the final season, it looks like it’ll be an emotional departure at the end of the campaign:
It is good that he is back and available (Wilshere played 73 minutes for the U23’s on Monday). He is not far away (from returning).
I plan for him to be here for the season, after (that) we will see.
It’s those final few words that Wenger mentions above that make me think there will be a review of Wilshere’s season to see if he deserves a new deal. But as things are at the moment, you can’t see him landing the 30/40 appearances needed.
Whilst Wenger might be happy with Wilshere’s progress it’s yet another moment in his Arsenal career that we’ve had to wrap him up in cotton wool before letting him into the first-team.
I’m a huge fan of Wilshere, but I think it’s time to start putting tactical/business decisions before sentimental ones and shifting Wilshere on so he can achieve a lengthy career elsewhere.
Want more Arsenal transfer news and updates? Make sure you’re following Fresh Arsenal on Twitter and Facebook!