Arsène Wenger praised Jack Wilshere’s performance in his first league start of the season, saying he impressed against West Ham on Wednesday.

Wilshere spent the 2016/17 season on loan at Bournemouth, with concerns about his recurring injuries keeping him out of the starting line-up with Arsenal at the time.

He then made more league appearances with the Cherries than he’d made in any season with Arsenal since 2010/11, which seems to have convinced Wenger to give him another chance this season.

After the match, the Arsenal boss gave his thoughts on the England international’s first league start back with the Gunners.

“Jack did well, overall, for a first game, especially in the first half,” Wenger told Match of the Day via Express. “He could add some sharpness but he defended well as well so overall for a first game it’s satisfying.

“He played well and created many movements forward in the first half. He needs regular football and I’ve said that many times. He’s been patient and he’s been rewarded. What he did tonight is positive.”

The Arsenal academy graduate performed very well on the night, despite not managing to help the team get the goal they needed to go in front.

West Ham defended well, and Arsenal’s front three were a bit wasteful. Although Wilshere did miss one big chance to score, he was otherwise very impressive.

Wilshere’s deal with Arsenal expires in June, leaving Wenger with a choice whether or not to offer a new contract.

Wednesday’s opponents West Ham are one of many teams who have been linked with the midfielder in recent weeks, and I’m sure one or more of them will make a move if Arsenal  don’t announce an extension to Wilshere’s deal.

January is only two-and-a-half weeks away, so time is running out.