Barcelona and Spain legend Xavi, 35, has declared his admiration for Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere in a recent interview with Sport Magazine, claiming he could make a major difference for both club and country.
The Spanish midfielder, who now plies his trade for Qatari club Al Sadd SC, came up against Wilshere a number of times whilst at Barca, and is a keen admirer of the 23-year-old’s talents. He had words of praise for the England international following his performance against the Catalan club in the 2011 UEFA Champions League.
He played a fantastic game against us [in 2011]. Let’s not forget he was just 20 or 21 years old.
In actual fact, Wilshere was just 19, however he gave such an experienced performance it was if he’d played at the top-level for years. He slotted perfectly into Arsenal’s midfield, and didn’t look out-of-place amongst the best in the world.
It’s no secret that in his career so far, numerous injuries have halted the midfielders progression and development. Following an impressive pre-season, an injury in August meant Wilshere has yet to play this season, and Xavi believes that if he can stay fit and add consistency to his game, both Arsenal and England will reap the benefits.
It’s just a shame he got injured so many times over the past two years. If he gets going and a bit of continuity as well, he may make the difference for both Arsenal and the English national team.
Xavi, a technically gifted footballer, as are many who come through Barceclona’s academy La Masia, believes Wilshere’s style of play is far from English.
He is a different kind of English player. Even though he has been nourished in a physical type of football, he is really talented, gifted for passing and he does not give the ball away. He does not seem to be English!
Following the recent injuries to Aaron Ramsey, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott, Arsenal will be looking forward to Wilshere fully recovering from his latest setback as quickly as possible, and continuing what had been a fine run of form.
