Arsenal Striker Benik Afobe Promises to Help Jack Wilshere Return Better and Stronger

Arsenal striker Benik Afobe is determined to help Jack Wilshere return from injury as a better and stronger player.

The 22-year-old suffered yet another injury for which he underwent surgery this week and has been ruled out for up to three months before he can return to action. Paddy McNair's tackle in their game against Manchester United led to the injury, taking Arsenal's injury count to nine, with a major part of the crop believed to be long term problems.

This was a major travesty for both Wilshere and Arsenal as the midfielder was looking good this season and had made a name for himself, playing in a deep anchor role for his national side. He was also finding his feet for Arsenal but it remains to be seen how the latest injury affects his form going forward.

Meanwhile, Afobe, who lives down the road from the midfielder, insists that they are good friends and his company will help the injured player recuperate faster and in a timely fashion.

"I probably see Jack about twice a week. He lives two minutes away from me back home and I'm always there. We are best friends so I see him a lot and I always watch every single Arsenal game," Afobe told the official Arsenal website.

"Jack's injured at the moment and I'm really disappointed and gutted for him because he's found form and he's been playing well for England and Arsenal. I just wish him a speedy recovery.

"That's what friends are for. It's not just about when you're doing well, having dinner or spending time together - you've got to talk about the reality, the injuries and how you're going to come back from them.

"I'll help him by trying to keep his head right and hopefully he'll come back a better and stronger player," he concluded.

The Gunners, who are currently perched in eighth spot will travel to West Bromwich Albion on Saturday in an early kick-off as they look to build on their encouraging win over Dortmund in midweek.