Arsene Wenger is hopeful that Jack Wilshere can fulfil his massive potential at Arsenal, calling the midfielder a ‘special player’.

The 25-year-old has been around for what seems like decades, after bursting onto the scene at such a young age. Much was made of Wilshere’s potential, with many tipping him to go all the way to the top, but the England star’s career has been blighted by constant injuries.

Wilshere made his first appearance for the Gunners in a 3-1 win over FC Koln in the Europa League, and Wenger is desperate for the midfielder to keep fit and reach the level so many predicted.

On whether Wilshere will ever fulfil his early promise, Wenger said: “It’s a dream for all of us. I gave Jack his start at 17 years of age.”

“You have to be convinced to play a boy at 17 that he is a special player.”

“He is a special player, but we are all the same in that you need health to work.”

“He is absolutely determined to get his place back in the team.”

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“He got a few knocks and bruises that build a man and at the start it was all very easy for him.”

“Jack has gone through some tough times so he has that density, that fitness now of a man who knows that life is not only easy.”

“He had always common sense Jack, but he had an impulsive character. I would say he’s a much more mature man today.”

[Quotes via Metro]