After finally completing a full and promising pre-season, Arsenal lost Jack Wilshere to injury shortly before the Community Shield in August.

Fracturing his tibia in training, Wilshere was expected to be back after a month or two of rest. Midway through September it was decided that he had not healed as expected and would require surgery.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 26: Jack Wilshere of Arsenal is held back by Josuha Guilavogui during the Emirates Cup match between Arsenal and VfL Wolfsburg at the Emirates Stadium on July 26, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
Jack Wilshere featured heavily in pre-season but has been injured since August. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

Now, finally, the midfielder is close to a first team return. According to Arsène Wenger we could see him in action within a month, which is a huge boost to Arsenal in the title race and England ahead of Euro 2016. Speaking to Arsenal.com, Wilshere himself insists he’s ready to return.

“[My recovery is] going well,” said the 24-year-old. “I’m back on the pitch and I’m just trying to build my fitness up because everyone knows how tough it is to play in the Premier League. I’m working on it and I’m slowly getting there.”

There can be no rush with Wilshere, especially considering how many injuries he’s had in the past. Just like Danny Welbeck, we should expect to see the midfielder tested with the u21 team before he’s in Wenger’s matchday squad again.

“Sometimes it’s been difficult to stay positive, especially after the injuries that I’ve had which have been frustrating.

“But as the injury goes, you get closer to full fitness and you see the light at the end of the tunnel, then you start to think about coming back and getting involved in the team.”