Wilshere delighted with new Arsenal deal

The 18-year-old midfielder has become a key member of the Arsenal team this season.

Wilshere told the club’s official website: “Arsenal football club has been like a second home for me and my family since I was nine years old. To be offered a new contract means everything to me.

“At this point in my career, when I’m only 18 years old and still learning so much about the game and myself, this is the perfect club, the perfect team-mates, the perfect fans, the perfect backroom staff and most importantly, the perfect manager to help continue that.

“I’ve got a long way to go before I can become the player I dream of becoming and I’m sure I’ll keep making the odd mistake, but it is a massive help for me having a special manager like Arsene Wenger and so many quality team-mates and the unbelievable Arsenal fans around me. I believe there is a lot more to come from me.

“I’ve been at the club for almost 10 years already, so I would like to thank everyone that has been part of getting me this far, especially people like Liam Brady, Roy Massey and all his staff at the Hale End Academy.

“Also, Neil Banfield, Steve Bould, Academy Coach Steve Leonard, Academy Scout Bob Arber, Assistant Head of Youth Development David Court, all the backroom staff, Arsene Wenger, all my team-mates and, of course, my family.”