Arsene Wenger has responded to Wilshere’s recent comments remarking that he “wants to feel wanted” at the club as the boss says that the club has been “patient” with the player despite his recent injuries.
The Gunners boss has warned the player not to get involved with a contract stand off with the club. The player currently has three years left in his contract but has drawn interest from big spending Manchester City.
When asked about Wilshere’s comments, Wenger said: “What do you mean by that? Is it a contract story? Is it? He knows he is wanted.
“I made Jack Wilshere start at 17 years of age. That means that you cannot show a bigger desire of wanting a player and we have always extended his contract and we have been very patient with all his injuries. At some stage I think he must feel wanted.”
Arsenal have started new contract negotiations with Wilshere but reports suggest that the deal might not happen till August.
“We always stood by him through every difficult moment,” said Wenger.
“Does that mean we want him to stay here for a longer period? Yes, as we would like to benefit from his talent now. He has not played since November, Jack. That is five or six months.”
Wenger also insisted that he wants both Wilshere and Theo Walcott for the next few seasons.