Jack Wilshere made use of all the extra time he had last season to start on his coaching qualifications, and has continued to do so on returning to Arsenal.

Last year, on loan at Bournemouth, Wilshere only had to play one game a week, since he was only ever utilised in the Premier League. As a result, he had a lot more time on his hands, and revealed he used such time to work on his future coaching career.

“Last year when I was at Bournemouth, because they’re not in Europe and didn’t have a midweek game, it seemed like an opportunity [to start on my badges],” he said to the Arsenal Weekly Podcast, reports the Daily Star.

“A few of the lads were talking about doing their Level Two [coaching badge] and I thought, I’m going to jump on it. I really enjoyed it, while I’m fit and playing and healthy I might not need it.

“I’m doing my UEFA B at the minute. Luckily I’ve got great facilities here at Arsenal, great players and the PFA and the FA have been great and really helpful. I’m going to complete that and then see what I want to do.”

Wilshere explained that he’s been doing the badges alongside Per Mertesacker, as the German prepares for his new role as academy manager. “He might need an assistant one day, you never know! He’s got that character, he’s a great captain even though he’s not playing [regularly].”

It’s smart thinking by the 25-year-old to get ahead of the game with his qualifications, because you never know when you might be forced into retirement by an injury, or suddenly get offered a job in management towards the end of your career.

At that stage, you’ve either done your badges and can make the step immediately, or you haven’t and have to put your career on hold for a few months. Also, it’s helpful to have players with a greater understanding of coaching and management, so they can help out their teammates on the pitch and in training.

Hopefully the English international continues to find the time to progress and get qualified.