Jack Wilshere, once considered one of English football’s best and brightest prospects, is now failing to live up to his potential at West Ham United. Thanks to yet another injury and form-related issues, the 26-year-old has barely made 10 appearances for Manuel Pellegrini’s side since arriving on a free transfer during the summer window.
But now with Declan Rice’s emergence, combined with the impact of Robert Snodgrass and Mark Noble in Pellegrini’s team-sheet, Wilshere is slowly losing his chance to prove himself. The 26-year-old was once Arsenal’s brightest prospect after stunning performances as a young teenager. Things went downhill after that with injuries playing a major role. As a result, the club and the star eventually ended their relationship last season.
With West Ham, however, it was a chance to re-ignite his career and show the world that Jack Wilshere could still fight with the big boys. But so far, injuries have limited any chances the 26-year-old could have had to showcase his skills. And now, time might be running out. The winter transfer window is approaching and Pellegrini might splurge to bring in reinforcements as West Ham try and hit a top six spot.
While that will be easier said than done, bringing in key stars to reinforce positions in the team could mean the end for a few current stars. Having played less than 10 games all season, Wilshere is certainly on that list. His talent is palpable but his fitness will always prove to be a major roadblock for any club, let alone a challenger for the top six.
A manager requires a star he can depend on to deliver, and while the Englishman can do that, his track record makes him a vulnerability. But if Wilshere can somehow stay fit for the next six months and start finding his footing in a league he once flourished in, Manuel Pellegrini will have no choice but to keep him on.
This could happen, especially since the Chilean boss played a key part in bringing Wilshere to West Ham during the summer window. However, if the English ace continues to struggle, he will risk becoming yet another forgotten face in the country’s long and illustrious footballing history.
