Jack Wilshere has quickly assumed talismanic importance for Arsenal following his return to domestic action and a similar billing awaits the 21-year-old should he continue to progress for England against Brazil.
The midfielder has resumed his career remarkably well after 17 months out with ankle and knee problems.
Brazil visit Wembley tomorrow night with Wilshere one of several England players producing encouraging domestic form. With a maturity beyond his years allied to intelligence and creativity, Wilshere naturally attracts hype.
He may have 85 Arsenal appearances to his name but, in international terms, Wilshere is still a novice. The last of his six caps — and the first for nearly 18 months — came as a substitute in November’s 4-2 friendly defeat in Stockholm.
However, much is expected of Wilshere and the fearlessness with which he tackles every task will stand him in good stead, according to another Arsenal player well placed to judge the effects of hysteria on young talent.
Theo Walcott has often spoken about his regret at being thrust into the limelight as a 16-year-old selected for the 2006 World Cup.
Wilshere (above) has the benefit of some additional experience and Walcott believes he is fully equipped to deliver his best against a Brazil side boasting their usual cocktail of talent.
“The way he’s started after so long out is fantastic,” Walcott said. “He’s worked so hard to get back fit. To come back into an England team at such a young age shows how good he is. He is mentally strong as well and he’s only getting better. So he will not look out of place at all.”
Walcott appears to have finally shaken off the stigma attached by his failure to live up to impossible expectations of one so young. Now 23, he is in the middle of his most effective season to date despite wrangles over a new contract.
He has scored 18 goals for Arsenal this season and, with Daniel Sturridge and Jermain Defoe out, Walcott has trained up front alongside Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney with Roy Hodgson pondering their selection together against Brazil.
