Benik Afobe is convinced that Gareth Southgate will give Jack Wilshere an England call-up for the World Cup in Russia this summer.

Jack hasn’t played for England since their 2-1 defeat to Iceland at Euro 2016 so a call-up would be a massive step forward.

Considering the form the 26-year-old is in, former teammate Afobe reckons that his buddy is the first name on the teamsheet at Arsenal and absolutely has to go to Russia.

“Gareth Southgate has got to take Jack to the World Cup if he is fit and maintains his current form,” the 24-year-old told the S*n.

“He’s on fire at the moment and has to be the first name on the teamsheet.

“I’ve known Jack since I was eight and he was nine. I’ve always believed in him, as have the people around him.

“But I genuinely think most of the nation have believed in him, too.

“He has been injured quite a few times — his knee, his ankle — some unfortunate injuries that have slowed down the progression of his career.

“Now some people are shocked that Jack is back playing consistently. He really is on a mission to prove the doubters wrong. He also wants to prove those who have backed him right.”

Afobe, who’s also Jack’s kids’ Godfather, knows the midfielder inside out and will most likely be well aware of just how much he wants to go to the World Cup. What’s more, Jack was on loan at Bournemouth, where the striker plays, last season and has witnessed how hard he works first hand.

Since returning from injury, Jack’s made 12 Premier League appearances and he’s now starting every match. Even though the Gunners lost 2-1 to the Cherries on Sunday, Jack was the best player on the pitch.

With just six months left on his current contract at Arsenal, it’s difficult to predict what the future holds.

All Jack can do is continue to put in strong performances and try not to get injured… Easier said than done when he’s the most fouled player in the league.