Arsenal: Jack Wilshere Makes The Cut

Jack Wilshere, the 16 year-old English prodigy has been promoted to Arsenal's first team this season. Wilshere has been in magnificent form in pre-season, and scored a very well taken goal against VfB Stuttgart.

He continued to impress in the Emirates Cup over the weekend and his 15-minute cameo role against La Liga winners, Real Madrid confirmed the fact that Jack Wilshere looks the part in the Arsenal first team squad.

Arsene Wenger was initially cautious over the youngster's progress, stating that he will integrate him into the Arsenal team patiently.

"Do not be impressed by his small size because he is not phased by the physical challenges. He really looks mature on the pitch, but he is 16 and we have to respect his development," said Wenger after the Stuttgart game which Arsenal won 3-1.

But, now it looks as if the youngster has played his way into the Arsenal first team squad with Arsenal confirming today that Wilshere will be given the number 19 jersey which was worn by Gilberto Silva until last season.

Wenger did give indications after last night's game against Real Madrid that Wilshere may have a role to play this season despite his young age by saying:

"You wouldn't want to put any limitations on his participation in the season because he is only 16. At that age you can improve. He looked strong enough and not fazed by the big games. The quality is there. I don't look too much at his age, more at what he is doing on the pitch, and right now what he is doing is good."

One thing is for sure, if Wilshere does replicate his form of pre-season in any of the games this season, we will all be raving about yet another quality youngster (who is English) produced by Arsenal.

But, I still don't expect him to be thrown right into the mix, and expect him to be eased into the team with Carling Cup and F.A. Cup outings, with some substitute appearances in the Premier League.

Whatever the case may be, I can't wait to see Jack Wilshere play for Arsenal next season.