I rushed Jack back a bit, says Arsene Wenger

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger talks to Jack Wilshere during a training session

Arsene Wenger has admitted to have ‘rushed’ Jack Wilshere back from the injury too early in Saturday’s game against Norwich City.

The 21-year-old English midfielder, who had injured his ankle, returned back for the first time since Arsenal‘s loss against Tottenham on 3 March.

“I rushed Jack back a bit. He was not completely ready,” said Wenger.

“I will get advice from the medical department and how he feels as well and use my experience.”

Arsenal are playing Everton tomorrow and if Tomas Rosicky is fit, Wenger might opt against starting Wilshere against Everton.

“How careful have I to be? To listen well to the medical advice and that is what I have to do, use him when everything is all right and listen to him as well, how he feels,” said Wenger.

“Jack has been out for six weeks, so maybe it was a bit too rushed what I did. He has practised with me since he was 16, so I know quite well how his body responds to things.”

Wilshere, who has made 27 appearances this season, was substituted in 59th minute in the 3-1 victory against Norwich and he admitted not to have returned to 100 percent fitness.

Wilshere said: “I know it was only six weeks, but you still lose your match sharpness and it takes a few games to come.”

“It was frustrating, because I was flying just before I got injured in March. I felt good, confident, and then picked up another injury.

“Things then drag a little and you lose your sharpness, but this time it wasn’t anything like as long as the one before, so hopefully this time I can get it back more quickly.

“I needed that game on Saturday – you always need your first one out of the way. I wasn’t great, I know it myself, I am better than that, but you need just to get that first game in so that your sharpness and understanding come back.”

Arsenal are currently third in the Premier League but they’re just a point above fourth placed Chelsea who have a game in hand, and Tottenham Hotspur.