Gareth Southgate insists Jack Wilshere needs playing time for Arsenal. (Reuters)

Gareth Southgate has fired back at Arsene Wenger over his claim that Jack Wilshere should be named in England’s squad for the upcoming international break.

The 25-year-old has started only four games this season and was not picked in Southgate’s squad for England’s friendlies against Germany and Brazil.

Despite his lack of appearances for Arsenal this season, Wenger claimed that Wilshere should be considered as an automatic pick for the national team.

‘A super-fit Jack, I don’t know how you can keep him out of the English squad,’ the Arsenal manager said on Wednesday.

Wilshere has only started four games this season. Reuters)

But after revealing his latest England squad on Thursday, Southgate hit back at Wenger’s claim.

‘I don’t know how you get in an England squad without getting in the Arsenal team,’ said the England boss.

‘There is no question about his ability, his football brain or personality, we just need to see him playing before he comes back in because unfortunately there has been a history of injuries.

‘I’ll be having discussions with Arsene about him, we think he is a top player so for him it’s about game time.’