Gareth Southgate says he left Jack Wilshere out of the England squad because of the midfielder’s previous injuries and lack of game time at Arsenal.
Wilshere has impressed when he has featured for the Gunners this season but was overlooked by England boss Southgate for this month’s internationals against Germany and Brazil.
Speaking at a media conference on Thursday afternoon, Southgate explained: “I don’t know how you get in an England squad without getting in an Arsenal team.
“There’s no question in our mind about Jack Wilshere’s ability and his football brain and his personality.
“We just need to see him play regular league football before we think it’s right to put him back in, because with him there’s unfortunately been a history of injuries and we want to make sure he’s robust enough before we bring him in.”
Southgate also revealed he spoke to Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger about Wilshere over the weekend before making a final decision.
“I did have a conversation with Arsene about him because we think on ability he’s a top player, so for him it’s just game time,” Southgate said.
Tottenham youngster Harry Winks is among the midfielders Southgate has opted to call up.