Arsenal star Jack Wilshere reveals gluten-free vegan diet has him in best shape of his career

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has revealed that a change of diet has helped him get into the best condition of his career.

Wilshere capped another fine performance by scoring his first League goal since May 2015 in a 4-1 home defeat of West Brom.

The 26-year-old has started just 121 League games for Arsenal, Bolton and Bournemouth (the last two clubs on loan) since his top‑flight debut a decade ago.

He has suffered from an array of injuries in that time, but feels ready to sustain his form for the long-term due to the changes he’s made.

The England international told Standard Sport: “I have been dairy and gluten free now for six weeks. My kids have always been dairy and gluten free since birth. I didn’t have much dairy but the few times I did in the team hotel, I had an upset stomach. So I have just cut it out completely. I feel that I look better, I have certainly lost a bit of weight, and am leaner. I am probably fitter as well.

“I feel sharper and quicker on the pitch. I feel like I can last longer. For example, at the end of the Chelsea game when we scored the second goal, I felt ‘come on, we can go on again here’. I was pressing them and felt good.

“I know my body well, I know the right foods to eat and the best way to recover. I’m also getting the right amount of sleep. I’ve learned that over the years, and I think I’m in the best shape I have ever been.”

Wilshere, who has started the past six games for Arsenal, is out of contract at the end of the season. Manager Arsene Wenger said talks over an extension were planned to take place early this month, but Wilshere is not sure when.