Following another solid individual display last time out during Bournemouth’s frustrating defeat at the hands of Middlesbrough, Jack Wilshere was even better on Saturday.
Wilshere’s overall performance levels continue to improve and it was clear that he’s showing signs of progression – not least with his link-up play alongside Junior Stanislas in the final third.
Constantly looking to recycle possession when passing lines aren’t obvious, it was a refreshing display from a player who deserves a run of fortune after the troublesome lack of it in previous seasons.
As you can see from his player dashboard below, he was fouled on three separate occasions and proved a constant menace in midfield against Sunderland.
Bournemouth took the lead, but Victor Anichebe’s well-taken equaliser was the wake-up call they needed to get forward frequently. Wilshere got more involved in proceedings as the match wore on, and could’ve netted twice but was denied.
An excellent reaction stop by Jordan Pickford and a crucial defensive block were the only two things in Jack’s way from getting what would’ve been a memorable brace, which was what his overall play deserved.
He didn’t shy away from his defensive duties and was regularly seen tracking back to cover team-mates near his own box, although the flashes of individual brilliance were limited to a minimum as Bournemouth’s hunt for an all-important second goal was ultimately foiled.