Wenger Confirms Wilshere’s ‘Minor’ Ankle Problem

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed Jack Wilshere missed the Aston Villa game due to inflammation to the troublesome ankle that kept him out for 17 months but insists it’s a ‘minor’ problem, according to the Daily Mail.

Wilshere missed the whole of last season with a series of ankle issues and only returned to action a month ago against Queens Park Rangers. The 20-year-old started four out of the next five games and was forced to miss the Fulham game after being sent off against Manchester United.

The midfielder was an unused substitute for Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa and Wenger confirmed it was due to ‘a little bit of inflammation’ to his ankle, but the boss insists it’s only a minor problem and he has not suffered a setback.

When asked about reports suggesting Wilshere had suffered a setback, Wenger is quoted by the Daily Mail as saying:

‘First, it’s a relief that he’s had no setback (since returning to action).

‘He had a little bit of inflammation of scar tissue (in the ankle) but it’s nothing. It’s very minor. The rest (against Villa) will help him get rid of it. Apart from that, he has done very well.

‘He has not played for 17 months. People forget what that mean. Seventeen months in a career is massive. But I’m very happy with the way he is progressing.’

After such a long time on the sidelines, minor issues like this were to be expected. A player can’t be out the game for over a year and come straight back in and be able to play 90 minutes in ever game without a few ‘minor’ problems.

Hopefully Jack’s back to face Everton on Wednesday as we badly missed him on Saturday but if he has to miss that game as well, fine. There is no point pushing him or he’ll end up suffering a major setback. Give the lad time.

How much did Arsenal miss Wilshere against Villa? Would you start him against Everton? Get involved in the comments section.