Murphy: Wilshere must start next game

Jack Wilshere simply has to start against West Ham on Wednesday.

That’s the message from former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy, who says the Englishman has “more about him” than Granit Xhaka.

Wilshere is into the final year of his Gunners contract and admits he is unsure as to where his future lies.

The 25 year-old stepped off the bench to help rescue a point for Arsenal in their 1-1 draw at Southampton on Sunday.

And Murphy believes the injury-plagued playmaker must start in the Gunners’ next game.

Speaking on Match of the Day, he said: “Jack Wilshere came on and we know what Jack can do, but he was penetrative.”

“He’s a better footballer than Xhaka. He’s got more about him, he tries more things.

“Welbeck and Giroud were a physical presence in the box. Wilshere’s looking up, trying to take people on and win free kicks.

Wilshere helped change the complexion of the game on Sunday.

“All of a sudden Southampton were having to defend the space in behind.

“The intention changed. It went from pretty, tippy-tippy football without making any impression, to penetrative football.

“And Jack Wilshere was great today. He made a big difference when he came on and he should start their next game.”

There have been questions as to whether Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey can play together in a midfield two. Arsene Wenger appears hellbent on maintaining a pairing, rather than a three which creates difficulties in partnering Wilshere and Ramsey together.

Some have suggested the Frenchman should revert to a back-four and deploy an extra man in midfield.

Gooners, we want to hear from you! Should Jack start? If so, what role should he play in? Let us know in the comments…