Wenger: 'Jack Wilshere won't play against Holland'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is adamant that Jack Wilshere will not take part in England’s friendly against Holland on Wednesday despite being included in the squad.

The boss insists that the 19-year-old, who picked up an ankle injury in the Gunners’ Emirate Cup match against New York Red Bulls, will not take part in the Wembley match.

"They can include him as much as they want," he said. "He won't play, simple as that. I wish he could."

Wenger was speaking after Arsenal’s 2-1 friendly defeat to Benfica last night, in which Robin van Persie was among number of players to pick up a knock.

"It's a joint problem, though I don't know how bad it is," said Wenger.

"Gibbs is injured, Vermaelen is injured. That's the negative side of the night." Arsenal play Newcastle United next Saturday in their first Premier League match of the campaign.