Former Arsenal and England midfielder, Jack Wilshere has been appointed as Arsenal’s U18 head coach.

Wilshere graduated from the Arsenal academy and went on to make 197 appearances for the club between 2008 and 2018, winning the FA Cup twice.

The former Bolton, Bournemouth, Westham and Aarhus midfielder announced his playing career had come to an end on Friday at the age of 30, just a day after ending his five-month stint at Danish club AGF.

“It’s a huge honour to have this role,” the former England international said. “It’s no secret that I love this club. I love what we stand for and you know a big part of my life was spent in this academy, some of the best days of my life.

“This is a big opportunity for me and I’m ready. I’m hungry and can’t wait to help these young players thrive and be the best they can be on and off the pitch.

“It’s a special feeling to be part of the Arsenal family. It never left me, even though I moved on for a few years, my heart was always still at Arsenal. I can’t wait to get started and help these young players thrive with a great team around me.”

Wilshere will be supported by another former Arsenal academy graduate Adam Birchall, who will act as U18s assistant coach and U17s head coach, having previously led the U16s.

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