Wilshere grateful for England call-up

The midfielder has not made an international appearance since England were humiliatingly defeated by Iceland in the Euro 2016. Wilshere was loaned to Bournemouth last season in an effort to regain his form following a series of injuries. He has since returned to Arsenal.

Despite his previous record, Wilshere insists that he is ready for the international scene. He said in a press conference: ''I understand that I haven’t played for England for a while so people are going to be watching me but as I’m confident in my own ability I’m looking forward to it. It has been about proving my fitness to everyone. I don’t think people have ever questioned my ability. Well, some people have! But it’s about proving my fitness and I am confident in myself and my body. I trust in my body and I’m looking forward to the future.''

The Arsenal star added that the pressure to perform at the top level is constantly intensifying: ''Every week you have a point to prove. That’s the industry we’re in. We’re at a level where we are judged week in, week out.’' 

Wilshere was last called-up in November 2016 although he remained on the bench for the games against Scotland and Spain. He added that Southgate had ''made it clear what he wanted me to do and I’ve done that. I’ve been fit all year. I’m fit and healthy and feeling good, feeling stronger as games go on.’'