Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid: Jack Wilshere has only one way to go

Jack Wilshere’s ongoing situation is a nervy one, but the consummate Arsenal man has only one way to go against Atletico Madrid.

Arsenal’s season has come down to the Europa League, and as such, Atletico Madrid stand in teir way as the gatekeeper that can open the door to one last bit of glory for Arsene Wenger and his two decades with the club.

There are so many factors to consider when looking at this first leg, not least of all the health concerns surrounding Mesut Ozil‘s mystery illnesses and the absence of Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

It’s the third man on the injury report – or on the report no longer, I should say – that has me bursting with optimism, however. That man being who else but Jack Wilshere.

Wilshere’s season has gone from so promising, to down in the dumps. His past few performances haven’t just been underwhelming, they’ve been rather poor. He’s been loose with the ball and a bit of a liability even.

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But if there is one thing we should know about Wilshere (which is also something we should know about Arsenal in general), it’s that you should absolutely never count him out and, in fact, when you are tempted to, it’s probably about time for another killer performances.

Which couldn’t be a minute too soon. Wilshere’s playing style has often been favorably compared to the way that La Liga plays, hence his link to the likes of Real Betis. As such, this may be quite the pleasant match-up for him, going up against a La Liga side that, while suffocating in defense, does allow space to be found.

Wilshere in space is dangerous. Very dangerous. What has made him look the most promising this year is his quick burst first step into space. That should be available to him, especially at home in front of the Emirates crowd.

From there, it’s all a matter of keeping a cool head and utilizing the resources around him rather than trying to go at it alone. Thankfully, there should be plenty of resources.

The key is starting out the match well. If he can find his rhythm early, then he may well become a wrecking ball for the duration of the match. And given how stout this opposing defense is, we’re going to need a lot of that.

Next: Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid Predicted Starting XI

Wilshere hasn’t bottomed out, but he’s not the kind of player that ever really will. There is too much grit and fight in him. Heap the pressure of this match on him and there is only one way to go – up.

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