Wenger backs Wilshere

Arsene Wenger believes Jack Wilshere has what it takes to follow Theo Walcott into the England team – but called for patience from the Arsenal youngster ahead of what could be a breakthrough season.

Walcott – a controversial omission from the ill-fated World Cup squad – and 18-year-old Wilshere are both expected to feature in the forthcoming European Championship qualifying campaign as Fabio Capello looks to rebuild a squad for the future following the Three Lions’ abject display in South Africa.