Mikel Arteta has told Jack Wilshere that he does have the ability to play in the Premier League - although the Arsenal boss cooled talk of a return with the Gunners.
Wilshere is currently without a club and is instead doing his coaching badges while training at Arsenal.
The January transfer window, however, provides the midfielder with a chance to find a new club if he wants.
When asked on Friday whether Wilshere could play in the Premier League, Arteta said: “Yes, 100 per cent! I have seen that, I can tell that he has [the ability to do so].”
Pressed on whether that could be at Arsenal, Arteta remarked: “That’s a different story!”
Wilshere has been earning plenty of praise from young players at Arsenal while working with him, with many talking up his ability in training.
“First of all it’s great to have him around, he is this type of character who adds special feeling to the club,” Arteta said.
“He comes in every day with a smile on his face, trying to do his best. His talent is unquestionable.
“When you see him in training, I think you have had some players say he is the best in training. So he has that. Now he is doing his coaching badges and it is completely up to him what the next step in his career will be and we are here to support that.”
