Wilshere’s return – it’s like he wasn’t even gone (Video)

When news began to emanate around the Emirates Stadium of Jack Wilshere’s possible return to the Arsenal starting XI, fans were unsurprisingly thrilled. The midfielder hadn’t made an appearance for the Gunners first team in 17 months.

When it was confirmed, the excitement levels began to rise. The lynchpin in the Arsenal midfield was ready to make his long awaited return to the senior squad. As expected, Wilshere received the loudest cheer of all the players once the team sheets were read out, stealing the thunder from teammate Bacary Sagna, who was also returning from a broken leg.

His first touch of the ball was greeted with a rapturous applause from the fans, who were delighted to see the England international on the field of play. The performance he gave was reminiscent to the ones he gave prior to his recent injury problems.

Completing 44 of his 48 passes, it wasn’t a shock to see the Gunners run the midfield during the 1-0 win over QPR on Saturday, often ghosting past the likes of Esteban Granero and Samba Diakite. Manager Arsene Wenger, still easing his prized asset back into action, substituted him in the 66^th minute, evidently worrying about his continued rehabilitation.

Regardless, fans have every right to be delighted to see Wilshere back in the pitch. He performed as though he had never been sidelined, which will help with his transition back into the first team.

Granted, there is still a long way to go before he is back to full fitness, with Wenger unsure as to whether he will play midweek or on Saturday against Manchester United. However, it was an effective, if not spectacular, return for Wilshere and one that will see the Gunners faithful happy to see their midfielder back in action.

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