Jack Wilshere responds to Southgate’s England snub

Jack Wilshere is determined to fight for his England place as an Arsenal player.

The Gunners midfielder has been left out of England’s squad for this month’s friendlies against Germany and Brazil due to his lack of game time at club level.

The likes of Jake Livermore and Jack Cork have been drafted into the squad after a raft of withdrawals, leaving Wilshere still kicking his heels on the sidelines.

The 25-year-old has been hampered by injury problems in recent years and could be running out of time to win a place in Gareth Southgate’s party for next summer’s World Cup.

Arsene Wenger urged Southgate to call-up Wilshere, but the England boss responded by suggesting Wilshere got game time with Arsenal. He also needs regular action with Arsenal to secure a new contract. His current deal is expires at the end of the current season.

Wilshere, who spent last season on loan at Bournemouth, is yet to start in the Premier League this season.

Wilshere told Sky Sports News: “I want to be playing for my country. I am a proud Englishman.

“But it is down to the manager. He didn’t select me. He said I need more football.

“That is what I have got to do. I have got to take it on board, try to get into the Arsenal first team and hopefully I’ll be selected.

“I have just come back to full fitness. I am happy with where I am, playing-wise. I am trying to get into the Premier League team.

“At the moment I am concentrating on the now. The future will take care of itself. All I have got to do is stay fit and play my football. I want to stay at this club, I have said that many times.”