Arsene Wenger: Jack Wilshere can play against San Marino!

Posted Friday, September 28, 2012 by The Sun

ARSENE WENGER has joked that Jack Wilshere could return for England in their forthcoming World Cup qualifiers... as they are only playing San Marino!

The Arsenal boss will give Wilshere a one-hour run-out against West Brom Under-21s on Monday.

Midfielder Wilshere has been out for 15 months with ankle and knee problems but is now finally back in full training.

England manager Roy Hodgson will name his squad next week for next month’s qualifiers against San Marino at Wembley and Poland in Warsaw.

Wenger said: “I think England will be too early for him. He has not played for 14 months. Who do England play, San Marino? Actually, I think he can play in that game!

“Jack will play on Monday, maybe an hour. It’s another important step but we have to calm your impatience a little bit.

“It is fantastic for him, especially when you are out for such a long time.”

Gunners striker Olivier Giroud admits breaking his goals duck is a huge weight off his shoulders.

The £12million summer signing from Montpellier hit the opener in the 6-1 Capital One Cup rout of Coventry, after not scoring in six previous games.

He said: “I feel happiness and relief after this goal, which I have been chasing a long time. The fact I hadn’t scored played in my head. It lifts the weight off my shoulders.”