Arsene Wenger was quick to point out the talent of his young midfielder Jack Wilshere, who scored his first goal in two years as Arsenal defeated the French champions Montpellier to qualify for the last 16.
Wilshere became a key player for Arsenal in the 2010/11 season, where his combination of technique and drive highlighted that he was a real talent, one of the best in Europe. After the disappointment of injury which ruled him out for almost 18 months, Jack has finally returned for the Gunners, where his impressive performances alongside Arteta and Cazorla have helped Arsenal gain some form.
Tonight, his manager Arsene Wenger was quick to praise the 20 year old, saying: "He's getting strong physically. Tonight he got in the box - he's the complete midfielder you know, I believe he can defend well, attack well and these kinds of matches will give him confidence."
Jack truly is a compete player, combining the technique and skill of a continental player with the traditional English drive and desire. The closer he gets to being fully fit, the better, but its important he isn't rushed.
His goal came just after half time. There was some neat link up play between Podolski and Vermaelen, which led to a ball into the box. Giroud, who was eager to make an impression against his former side, leapt up and cushioned down a header to Wilshere, who finished tidily in the six yard box.
Jack demonstrated his calmness in front of goal and hopefully will be able to get many more of them as he regains full fitness. The England international was not Reston on his laurels despite his fine performance, and called for the side to show some improvement in the coming games.
"I think we have to step it up from tonight," Wilshere told Sky Sports. "It wasn't good enough, especially in the first half.
"We stepped it up in the second half and got the three points, so we have to go now, watch the game, work on our weaknesses and get into the last 16 and whoever we get, you've got to play the best teams in the competition to win it so it doesn't matter who you get.
"We're pleased. It was a tough game tonight. Montpellier came tough. We started off sloppy but we knew if we kept going we'd get the win."
This determination to continue improving highlights that he is truly a top talent, and Wenger even went in to compare his to Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas. Tonight was his first game alongside Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and the two friends surely have a long future together at club and country. Hopefully they can blossom into the most fruitful of partnerships.
Arsenal are keen to deliver some silverware this season after 8 years without a trophy now, and with players like Jack that is certainly achievable.
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