Russian midfielder Andrey Arshavin believes that young Arsenal teammate Jack Wilshere is already a better player than him after the 18-year-old repeatedly impressed in the opening forays of the Premier League.
The teenage playmaker has been hailed as the vanguard of a new generation of English talent and despite being sent-off last weekend has been tipped in all quarters for a bright future at the top of the game.
Speaking to the Arsenal official matchday programme ahead of another sparkling Wilshere performance against Shakhtar Donetsk, Arshavin reflected on the progress of Arsene Wenger’s latest protégé.
“Maybe we’re similar in height and build, but we have different styles.
“I think he’s better than me even now, he’s playing so well at 18-year-old.
“Everyone knew he had big talent and now he’s at an age where he can show it more.”
Looking back on Wilshere’s recent red card against Birmingham City, the Russian insisted that it was merely part of the learning process for any youngster.
“I think everyone does things like this early in their career and I include myself in that. I’ve been sent off two or three times myself although never for a straight red card.”