Match of the Day pundit and former Fulham midfielder, Danny Murphy, reckons that Jack Wilshere starting against West Ham on Wednesday is a no-brainer.

Speaking about Arsenal’s 1-1 draw away to Southampton on the BBC’s Match of the Day on Sunday, Murphy claimed that Jack is a better footballer than Granit Xhaka and should absolutely get the nod ahead of the Switzerland international against the Hammers.

“Jack Wilshere came on and we know what Jack can do, but he was penetrative,” Murphy said.

“He’s a better footballer than Xhaka. He’s got more about him, he tries more things.

“Welbeck and Giroud were a physical presence in the box. Wilshere’s looking up, trying to take people on and win free kicks.

“All of a sudden Southampton were having to defend the space in behind.

“The intention changed. It went from pretty, tippy-tippy football without making any impression, to penetrative football.

“And Jack Wilshere was great today. He made a big difference when he came on and he should start their next game.”

Jack came on in the 69th minute at St. Mary’s and did indeed offer far more than Xhaka had until that point.

xhaka wilshere southampton
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 10: Jack Wilshere replaces Granit Xhaka of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Southampton and Arsenal at St Mary’s Stadium on December 9, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

The 25-year-old is a better passer and more creative than his Swiss teammate, and instantly gave the Gunners an edge going forward. As soon as Jack came on the pitch, followed by Olivier Giroud, Arsene Wenger’s men began to play with a bit more purpose and eventually got the equaliser minutes before the final whistle.

Jack is yet to make a Premier League start this season but after his performance at the weekend and his goal against BATE Borisov on Thursday, you have to imagine that the boss will give him the nod mid-week.

With contract talks supposedly around the corner, the England international will want to grab every opportunity he can to prove himself. Aaron Ramsey’s sidelined with a hamstring injury, so hopefully Wenger gives Jack a chance.