Date: 20th November 2014 at 7:15pm
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Much has been made of Jack Wilshere’s recent performances for England. And for good reason. He was nothing short of sensational against Slovenia and Scotland (albeit they were Slovenia and Scotland), reveling in the deeper lying role in midfield. He looked a real natural fit in that position, retaining possession for England while also sweeping up defensively to win possession back.

He of course is naturally attack minded and didn’t shy away from play making even in his new found rule. The ball he played for Chamberlain to score was straight out of the top drawer and we could be looking at England’s next holding midfielder/deep lying play maker.

Many brows have been raised by Wilshere’s performances which have caused many to ponder his long term role. I am not sure I want to see Jack give up the number 10 role just yet as I think he is unplayable on his day. But I wouldn’t be opposed to dropping him deeper either, so long as the system allows him the room to roam. He has always had the tenacity and endeavor to make a fabulous defender or defensive midfielder, but his ability with the ball at his feet is too extraordinary to bypass.

For England I’m all for it, as Hodgson seems to favour a 4-4-2 of sorts with the two central midfielders floating if you will. Wilshere was given a deeper lying discipline than Downing initially, but depending on the phase of the play could turn up on the attacking end.

He plays more of a box to box for Arsenal. Wenger likes to play with a 4-2-3-1 or 4-1-4-1, both of which call specifically for defensive midfielders. The use of a number 10, usually Ozil or Sanchez, severely limits the space for the holding midfield player on the attacking end.

The likes of Arteta and Flamini play there now and are hardly ever involved in the advanced third, and it would be a shame if Wilshere had to take on that role. As impressive as he is defensively, he is naturally an attacker and simply must be involved in the play. He is too clever and creative to not be.

Wilshere can play defensive midfield. If the time comes where he is needed to fill that position, he should be trusted to do so. But making the permanent switch is still up in the air for me. Let us know what you think in the comments below.

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One response to “Has this Arsenal star found a new home in defensive midfield?”

  1. pius ezeh says:

    For me, i trust jack in that position. I wil lik wenger to play 4 2 3 1 against man u and used jack and Ramsy in that double four. Jack have a stronge tracking and natural defensive in midfielder role