by Lewis Ambrose

Speaking ahead of England’s friendly against Ireland it is clear that Roy Hodgson is delighted to have Jack Wilshere, but his praise for the midfielder came with a warning.

Wilshere has, when fit, been key to Hodgson’s plans of rebuilding the England team following World Cup disappointment last summer.

More often than not Hodgson’s new-look young England team has seen Wilshere deployed at the base of a diamond as the national team manager seeks to replace the influences of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in the middle of the park.

It’s plain to see that the England manager loves his talented midfielder.

“Jack is a very enthusiastic and eager player.,” Hodgson said.

“He plays with a confidence and an air of enthusiasm which is a real delight to see and work with.”

Injuries

A number of setbacks mean Wilshere’s career for both club and country has stuttered, to say the least.

Always selected in the squad (and usually in the team) when fit, it took him a while to start racking up England caps thanks to lengthy spells on the sidelines.

Picking up his 27th cap against Ireland – his 13th since the start of 2014 – he has begun to establish himself in the England side.

“We’ve been unlucky with Jack, he’s been with us for three years but has been injured,” Hodgson added.

When he isn’t injured he is clearly right at the forefront of Hodgson’s plans.

Conduct

But he has to be careful. Charged by the FA for goading Tottenham after Arsenal won the FA Cup last weekend, Wilshere hasn’t got the best reputation in the world.

“It’s not the type of behaviour we encourage or want to see but unfortunately young men do things they regret. We need to make sure he curbs his enthusiasm.”

Hodgson did, however, reserve some praise for Arsenal.

“It was important Arsenal took that matter in hand and it was dealt with as far as Arsenal and the FA were concerned.”

Hodgson and England value Wilshere’s enthusiasm, but it must be controlled.