Jack Wilshere Bio Send To Friend  

Another exciting prospect to come out of the Arsenal academy, Wilshere announced his presence at the club with some eye-catching displays in the 2008-09 pre-season campaign.

The driving force for the Gunners' U18 side, the left-sided midfielder has been played one year above his age-level for the England U17 side and has also played for the U21s.

A skilful midfielder who has been with the club since he was nine, he made Arsenal history by making his full first-team debut as a substitute against Blackburn at Ewood Park in the Premier League in September 2008.

At 16 years and 256 days, he became the youngest player to represent Arsenal in both the League Cup and Premier League. Just 10 days later, Wilshere made his first competitive start for the club in the Carling Cup third-round victory over Sheffield United - capping a fine performance with his first goal in a 6-0 victory.

Boasting excellent technical skills, a powerful shot and great vision, Wilshere is held in high esteem by Arsene Wenger and impressed England coach Fabio Capello during the Gunners' pre-season in 2009-10 - prompting calls for the youngster to be called up for England's World Cup squad if he breaks into the first-team at the Emirates.