Arsenal Legend Martin Keown Believes Injury Prone Midfielder Can Boost England's World Cup Campaign

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown believes Gunners midfielder Jack Wilshere could prove crucial to England's chances at next summer's World Cup, according to a report in the Daily Mail.

The 25-year-old midfielder has suffered a host of injury issues over the years, but when on the pitch has proved to be one of the Premier League's best playmakers on his day. 

Wilshere is currently being restricted to League Cup and Europa League games as Arsene Wenger looks to help him regain fitness.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Keown said: "He is one of the best English players to have been developed in recent years and it will be to England’s benefit at the World Cup if he can start playing regularly."

Wilshere has been capped 34 times for England, scoring twice and was part of the squads for the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2016, but played bit part roles in both tournaments. 

He's impressed for Arsenal in the cup games this season, but former Gunners defender Keown believes Wilshere needs game time in the Premier League to truly prove his worth to England boss Gareth Southgate.

He said: "What he needs to do is show he can step up from playing in Europa League and League Cup games to the Premier League." 

Aaron Ramsey and Granit Xhaka have been Arsenal's first choice midfielders this season, but many were not happy when Wilshere remained on the bench during their 2-1 loss at Watford on Saturday.

Wilshere will look to continue his recent run of form in the Europa League when Arsenal face Red Star Belgrade at home on Thursday.