Arsenal injury news: Arsene Wenger expects Jack Wilshere to come back stronger

Arsene Wenger wants Jack Wilshere to stay at the Emirates despite the England international missing a major part of the last few years through injuries. The 24-year-old has not played a single game this season after breaking his foot in training and has his return pushed back to February following a lack of progress in his recovery.

"He has two years left and I want Jack to stay here. He is a special case because he is a special talent and he comes out of the club. And he is an England international and I hope his injuries will stop at some stage," Wenger said, as quoted by the Mirror.

Wenger's comment suggests a new deal may be on the cards when Wilshere's current contract expires. The news comes as a massive boost for the player, who has been linked with a move to Manchester City in the summer. Wenger refuses to give up on Wilshere's future, saying he talks to the midfielder at every opportunity, giving him support for the battles ahead.

"I've spoken to him about the injuries because when you love football and at his age, when you wake up in the morning and you can't practice, that's terrible. They need support and I try to give it to him," Wenger said.

The Frenchman believes all is not lost for the midfielder and even expects him to come back stronger after the injury.

"...he is strong and he is dealing with that. He started at 17 and played every single game and suddenly it stopped. So I believe that can make you stronger. You know I'm an optimist and I always think: 'OK it's true that he hasn't played many games in recent years.' But I hope at some stage that will stop because he is young and I hope I'm right."

Roy Hodgson has voiced reservations about Wilshere's availability for the European Championships later this year. But Wenger insists the midfielder will be fit to lead England's charge in the tournament.