Wilshere can be one of best midfielders in world – Xavi

Mark Holmes
Jack Wilshere: Arsenal midfielder defended by Arsene Wenger

Jack Wilshere: Arsenal midfielder defended by Arsene Wenger

Xavi has again spoken out in praise of Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere, claiming he can become “one of the best midfield players in the world”.

Xavi said last month that Wilshere was a “different kind of English player”, and now the Barcelona legend has heaped more praise on the 23-year-old ahead of England’s friendly against Spain.

“If he had a career that had been injury-free we would already be talking about him as one of the top central midfield players in Europe,” said Xavi.

“I have played against him, I have watched him carefully, and if he can overcome injuries, then he can still go on an be one of the best midfield players in the world.

“With all respect, he doesn’t play the English way.

“He has an excellent passing range, an ability not to lose the ball, it is clear that he has had his education at Arsenal.

“For many years now the one position England have not struggled with is world-class midfield players. Scholes, and then more recently Lampard and Gerrard.

“Now I see Wilshere as the future of English football, that is why it is so important they keep him fit.”

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has suggested England should play on the counter-attack against teams like Spain, and Xavi agrees that utilising the pace of players like Theo Walcott and Raheem Sterling represents the Three Lions’ best gameplan.

“England have so much pace with Walcott and Sterling, that with the vision of Wilshere’s passing they can cause all teams a lot of problems, that’s how I see them setting up most effectively.

“Yes, the game is a friendly, but with it being so close to the European Championship every game is so important now.

“The coaches need to decide on their best team and formation, and the players don’t have many chances left now to fight for a place in the team.”

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