Jack Wilshere signs for West Ham United

Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere is staying in the Premier League after signing with London rival West Ham.

Published : Jul 09, 2018 19:44 IST

Wilshere was a free agent after his career-long association with Arsenal came to an end following the appointment of Unai Emery as Arsene Wenger's successor.
Wilshere was a free agent after his career-long association with Arsenal came to an end following the appointment of Unai Emery as Arsene Wenger's successor.
lightbox-info

Wilshere was a free agent after his career-long association with Arsenal came to an end following the appointment of Unai Emery as Arsene Wenger's successor.

West Ham has announced the signing of Jack Wilshere on a three-year contract after the England midfielder was released by Arsenal.

Wilshere was a free agent after his career-long association with Arsenal came to an end following the appointment of Unai Emery as Arsene Wenger's successor.

The midfielder has not played for England since Euro 2016, but was called up by Gareth Southgate for pre-World Cup friendlies, only to be forced to pull out of the squad due to injury, and he was overlooked for the group that travelled to Russia.

READ: Cardiff City captain Morrison among seven to sign new deals

Fitness issues have marred Wilshere's career, but the 26-year-old will be able to make a fresh start at West Ham under Manuel Pellegrini.

"It feels good, it feels special. Many people know that I've had a special bond with this club growing up," said Wilshere, who has family that support West Ham.

"People will have seen the picture of me in a West Ham shirt and I've got good memories of my childhood supporting West Ham, watching them at Upton Park. It feels good and of course, my family and a few of my friends are West Ham fans so everyone's buzzing."

ALSO READ: Klopp: Liverpool still working on new signings

Everton was among the clubs also linked with Wilshere, but the midfielder had no doubts about joining West Ham. "I think it was a number of things - the manager being one and the way he wants to play and where he sees me playing," Wilshere said.

"The fans, of course – everyone knows how big West Ham's fanbase is – and especially in this new stadium. Not many clubs could fill it week in, week out, and West Ham does."

"I want to be playing here in front of the Hammers, and my bond I've had with the club over my childhood will make it even more special."

Wilshere will now link up with Pellegrini's squad at West Ham's pre-season training camp in Switzerland.

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment