Arsenal: Jack Wilshere not unjustified to want departure

Jack Wilshere has left the door open for a possible Arsenal exit amid frustrations over his lack of playing time. But the midfielder is justified in his desires, especially in a World Cup year.

World Cups change things. Every player dreams of playing in one. Every player dreams of winning one, even the English, whose dreams are hopelessly futile. And it alters the perception of players towards their standing within their domestic squad, as they look to establish themselves at their clubs, play regularly, and begin building a case for inclusion in the World Cup squad.

The current Arsenal squad is stock full of such players. Danny Welbeck, Olivier Giroud, although his position in the France squad is a little more secure than others, are such examples. Perhaps the most prominent, though, is Jack Wilshere.

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The young English midfielder, after suffering from multiple years of injuries, is beginning to re-find his best form, impressing in the Europa League and domestic cups thus far. But he has yet to make a start in the Premier League, and as far as the World Cup goes, that is where the reputation is built. And Wilshere is aware of the frustrations. Speaking after Thursday night’s loss to FC Koln, Wilshere revealed that, while he would like to play, he is determined to earn his place back, admitting that a solution will present itself either way:

"“Of course, I want to be playing. It’s difficult when you play every three weeks. It’s the same as every player. I’m still determined to win my place back, I’m working hard and we’ll see what the future holds—if I can get in or I can’t”"

Arsene Wenger has stated that Wilshere will be given playing time in the league. But time is running out. Gareth Southgate, England manager, questioned how he could pick Wilshere for the squad if he isn’t playing for his club. It is a fair question to ask.

And Wilshere would certainly want to make his way into the World Cup squad. His desires to leave, if they are, or even if they are mere temptations, not quite as strong as genuine wants, are more than justified. There is a clear reason as to why Wilshere would want to leave for a club that he is sure to be played at each and every week. It’s simply natural.

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Whether Wilshere will leave in January or not, only time will tell. But if he has not got regular starts before then, I would not be surprised to see him pining for an exit.

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