Wenger - Jack will come back stronger

Arsene Wenger is certain that Jack Wilshere will come back strongly from the ankle problem that has ruled him out for the next three months.

The England international had successful surgery on his left ankle on Thursday afternoon after sustaining the ligament injury against Manchester United.

While Wenger admits it is a blow to lose Wilshere, he is confident that the 22-year-old will go on to have a “massive career”.

“He’s prepared and focused on coming back to finish the season well,” the manager said. “I think he will be back at the end of February, beginning of March and he will focus on coming back to rehab, having a strong rehab, and then I’m sure he will help us to do well until the end of the season.

“He's very down - Jack is a football man who loves the game. But on the other hand, he's a very strong character as well and he has learnt to deal with adversity at a very young age.

“He always comes out stronger and when I spoke to him, the final sprint of the season is already in his mind. He's a very strong boy.

“If he has no problem with his joints, he will make a massive career. I was more worried one year ago than I am today because he had two or three surgeries on his right ankle. At some stage, you could raise that question but today I am much more confident that he will [fulfil his potential].”