Lengthy Wilshere absence confirmed

Arsenal have confirmed that midfielder Jack Wilshere is set to miss the next ‘four to five months’ following surgery on his ankle.

The north London club revealed on Monday that that the England star will be out of action until at least January as he undergoes a prolonged period of rehabilitation.

“Jack Wilshere has this morning undergone ankle surgery at a central London hospital,” an Arsenal statement read.

“Under the care of two world renowned surgeons, Jack has had the stress fracture of his right ankle repaired.”

“The initial indications are that the surgery has been successful and Jack will now undergo a prolonged period of rehabilitation. It is envisaged that Jack’s rehabilitation will take a period of four to five months.”

Wilshere, who aggravated the ankle injury in pre-season playing against New York Red Bulls, admitted that his ankle is feeling sore but that he is already looking forward to getting back to full fitness.

“I’ve had my operation this morning and all went well,” he told the club’s official website. “My ankle is little bit sore, but I’m already looking forward to working hard to get fit and playing again.”

“I would also just like to say thanks for the many messages of support I have received from you, the fantastic Arsenal supporters. See you all soon at the Emirates.”