AC Milan boss Gennaro Gattuso makes big Jack Wilshere claim ahead of Arsenal clash

The Milan boss, a World Cup winner in 2006, spoke highly of the Arsenal midfielder ahead of the Europa League last-16, second leg clash at the Emirates Stadium. 

And as his side prepares to try to climb a mountain – following a 2-0 victory for the Gunners in Italy – inspired in part by Wilshere a week ago, he was full of praise for a player who is still unwilling to commit his long-term future to the club he has been associated with since the age of eight.

Gattuso said: “He is a very different sort of player – he has got the personality of English football but with the qualities of a Spanish player. Two different cultures and I like him a lot.

“He may not be super-fast, but he has got great skills and is super-tactical. He has good ball circulation – when he gets the ball he knows exactly where to send it.

“He knows exactly the right pace and can change the pace of the game. 

He can play central midfield of a little bit further up. He had a few physical problems but he has got a great talent.

“He can still express a lot and give a lot. I don’t know how it is going to end up with his contract but I have always admired his qualities.

“I think he can play in any league.”