Arsene Wenger: Jack Wilshere can still play major part in Arsenal’s season

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes Jack Wilshere can put his latest injury setback behind him to play a major part this season after it was confirmed the England midfielder needed surgery to fix a hairline fracture in his left leg.

Wilshere, 23, has battled through a string of fitness issues which have halted his progress in recent campaigns. Following further medical examinations on an injury suffered in pre-season, the decision has now been taken that an operation is needed to properly correct the problem which will see a small plate inserted into the bone, and a rehabilitation time of around three months.

Wenger, who is already without forward Danny Welbeck until at least Christmas following knee surgery, moved to allay fears over Wilshere’s long-term recovery prospects.