April 15, 2015 16:57:09 UK
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has been out of action since November but, nearing a first team return, is hoping that will come at Wembley.
The Gunners face Reading in the FA Cup semi-finals on Saturday and the England international, who has had ankle surgery, is hungry to get back into action, especially as, in his absence, Arsene Wenger’s team have been in great form.
Eight successive wins have moved the Gunners up to second in the Premier League table and Wilshire rejoins a squad in good spirits.
He told Arsenal Player: “We have added real quality, world-class players to the squad and the main thing here is the team ethic.
We have added real quality, world-class players to the squad.
Jack Wilshere
“You can see that we have a great atmosphere around, everyone wants to work for one another and we go into every game knowing we can create chances if we stay strong defensively and win the ball higher up.”
Wilshere’s last game was a home defeat against Manchester United, though he made it back into the squad in February and was an unused substitute for a game against Crystal Palace before further corrective surgery was required.
However, the Gunners have done well in the meantime, going through March with a 100% record including an FA Cup sixth round win at Old Trafford, beating Manchester United 2-1.
As well as considering Wilshere for a Wembley return, manager Arsene Wenger may use the FA Cup tie to include some players denied recent Premier League action including Mikel Arteta, Abou Diaby and Mathieu Debuchy.
Wosciech Szczesny is also expected to return in goal after losing his place to David Ospina.
Arsenal, FA Cup holders after beating Hull City in last year’s final, are 1.83 to win again this year. Liverpool are priced at 2.62 and the other semi-finalist, Aston Villa are 9.00.
Looking for more from bet365? Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook or +1 us on Google+ for fun competitions, special offers & much more!
Don’t forget, all of the fantastic markets we have to offer, including In-Play betting, can be accessed on mobile or tablet with bet365 On The Move.
View all Soccer betting
