Fabio Capello has praised “future England captain” Jack Wilshere, describing the young Arsenal midfielder as the best he’s seen at his age.
Wilshere, 19, has been in scintillating form for Arsenal this season, putting in a series of stand-out performances – including the first leg of the Champions League clash against Barcelona.
Despite his tender age, Wilshere dominated the midfield against two of the world’s best players in Xavi and Andreas Iniesta as Arsenal triumphed against Barca at the Emirates.
His performances have earned him a place in the England set-up – and Capello is confident England have got a genuine world class star in the making.
The Italian told The Daily Mail: “Following the Denmark game, some people were surprised when I said I was really happy with his performance.
“He played with confidence and without fear. He tried to do the same things he usually does when he plays for Arsenal and everyone can understand his value after the games against Barcelona.
“I followed him. I monitored him during the game in Barcelona.
“Against the most difficult team, one of the best teams of all, he played the same game, with the same confidence that he did in the first leg in London. Then Arsenal won. The second time it was more difficult.
“He needs more caps but he is a real leader – he will be England captain one day
Capello has even spoken about Wilshere in the same light as three of the game’s best players of the past 25 years.
He added: “I remember two defenders, Paolo Maldini and Franco Baresi, and one attacker, Raul, who was 19 at Real Madrid, but for personality and confidence on the pitch, he is the best young midfielder I have seen for his age.”
You might be interested in:
Football chairman suspended after bidding for Lionel Messi
Jermain Defoe’s £3.75 million mansion for sale