Much is said about Arsenal playmaker Jack Wilshere, and even more written. But have the media been guilty of rating a player too highly, when it can be argued he isn't warranting of such praise just yet? The 2014 World Cup is approaching next summer, and a number of managers have revealed their high expectations for the Arsenal midfielder, and how England's potential success relies solely on the inclusion of Wilshere. It's high praise for a player who turns 22 in January, and has only just made his 10th cap for the England national team - despite making his first England appearance in 2010. His best season on a personal level was the 2010/11 campaign which saw him win the PFA Young Player of the Year, Arsenal Player of the Season, and he was named in the PFA Team of the Year. One of his most memorable outings for Arsenal was his man of the match performance against Barcelona in the Champions League on 16.2.11 - Arsenal won 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium. After being sidelined for the entire 2011/12 campaign with injury, last season saw Wilshere pick up his form. However, he failed to hit the heights he once previously showed in an Arsenal shirt. Many question why Wilshere is being regarded as such an important player for England's success, as he's been one of the least featured for the national team. England caps 2010 - One appearance 2011 - Four appearances 2012 - One appearance 2013 - Four appearances His injury troubles have seen him missing out for the Three Lions all too often, and it's also meant his form has been shaky in parts. On a number of occasions, Wilshere has hobbled off the pitch with a knock and has to be substituted. His most recent performance against Ukraine left something to be desired, although manager Roy Hodgson revealed he wasn't match-fit just yet. Talk is on the Arsenal man being a potential future captain for club and country. All this before he's represented his country in a major international tournament. While it's still early days for Wilshere, to suggest he's England's most important player for the 2014 World Cup is heavy-handed. Let alone, how the nation are still yet to confirm their qualification.
Crippy Cooke, 23, is a freelance Football Writer contributing to What Culture. He's had work featured on Zoo, MSN, London 24, The Telegraph, The Huffington Post, and was recently named Writer of the Year on FTBpro - while also a nominee for Best Male Blog in the Football Blogging Awards.
