Jack Wilshere is back for Arsenal against Cologne and it’s perfect opportunity to show everyone he’s still got what it takes
JACK WILSHERE is back – and it’s time for the Englishman to re-establish himself in the Arsenal midfield.
Arsenal take on Cologne in their first Europa League game since the defeat against Galatasary In 2000 Final in Copenhagen.
Arsene Wenger’s men finished outside the top four for the first time since the boss' arrival, leaving the Gunners in the bridesmaid of European competition for the first time in 17 years.
The Gunners take on Germany’s Cologne at the Emirates tonight, with a number of first team players left out of the squad ahead of Sunday’s trip to Champions Chelsea.
Wilshere will start his first game for the gunners since May 2016, which will also see him make his first appearance for the club since departing on loan to Bournemouth last year.
Circumstances were said to be acrimonious surrounding Jack’s departure, and the relationship between him and the club not the best it has been.
However the Englishman, who was once dubbed by Xavi as England’s greatest young midfielder, now has a chance to step back onto the Emirates pitch and win the boss over.
His performance, fitness and temperament will be monitored closely.
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With Arsenal’s shaky start to the season and the recent injury to Francis Coquelin, Jack will know
that a good performance could see him come back into contention.
Others on the periphery of the first XI such as Olivier Giroud, Alex Iwobi and Rob Holding are likely to start.
Youngsters Reiss Nelson, Ashley Maitland-Niles and Jeff Reine-Adelaide are also in contention.
Star man Alexis Sanchez is also due to start as he chases full match fitness after returning late to pre-season.
The Europa League will likely provide Arsenal with their best opportunity back into Europe’s elite competition.
Striking the balance between giving youth the opportunity and enough experience to win games will be key for Arsene Wenger’s men.
The German side have lost their last three Bundesliga games, including a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Augsburg at the weekend.
The Gunners will be looking at the game as a good opportunity to build some momentum and build upon the victory over Bournemouth on the weekend.
Check out which Premier League players could be on the move... based on their shirt numbers.
Meanwhile, here's why you SHOULD be looking forward to the Europa League's return.
