Arsenal news: Jack Wilshere defended by England manager Gareth Southgate

Wilshere has received a lot of criticism over the past few months with a new deal at Arsenal yet to be settled.

The midfielder has been improving though in recent weeks and been rewarded with a recall to England’s squad.

The Three Lions face Italy and Netherlands in friendlies later this month and Southgate has handed Wilshere his first call-up since Euro 2016.

He last played for his country when England were humiliated by Iceland, almost two years ago.

And with Southgate looking to narrow his options down with a World Cup just around the corner, the manager feels Wilshere can prove the difference.

Southgate said: "Jack's a player with unquestionable talent.

“I have had to field a lot of questions about him and the key for me now is he is playing the games that matter for Arsenal and playing well.

"Physically we feel he is close to where he can get to and he is having a good influence on games."

Wilshere starred as Arsenal beat AC Milan 2-0 in the Europa League last-16 first leg.

The return fixture at the Emirates is tonight as Arsenal hunt for silverware.

They were beaten in the Carabao Cup final by Manchester City last month and sit sixth in the Premier League.