Nacho Monreal has stressed Jack Wilshere's importance to the Arsenal cause as the midfielder moves closer to a first team return.
Wilshere is now fit enough to feature again for the Gunners after shaking off a bad ankle injury which struck towards the end of last year. He has been warned however by manager Arsene Wenger that he must fight for his place in the side.
Wilshere has also been linked with a potential move away from Arsenal, Manchester City mooted as suitors, but Monreal is clear just how important the England international is to the Gunners cause.
"Jack is a very important player for us and he has been showing what he can do for many years now", Monreal told his club's site.
"He has given us a lot over the years.
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"We are very aware that he is a very good footballer and know what he can bring to us. This year he has had the misfortune of picking up quite a few injuries and he has been out of the side for quite a few games", the Spaniard continued.
"However, he is about to return and we know that he is a strong player and with him we are going to be stronger."
It remains to be seen whether Wilshere will make his return for Arsenal this weekend against Burnley at Turf Moor as the Gunners aim to keep the pressure on Jose Mourinho's Chelsea at the top of the Premier League standings. Arsenal are also in the semi-final of the FA Cup.
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