Jack Wilshere: 'Critics should take my age into account'

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has insisted that his critics often fail to remember that he is still only 21 years of age.

The England international has struggled to find consistency since returning from a lengthy injury layoff last year, but was quick to point out that he is still learning his trade.

"Yes, I do think [people forget my age]," Wilshere told the club's website. "Not just because I've been around for a long time, but people hear I've got two kids and it's not often you hear about a 21-year-old with two kids.

"I have been in the [Arsenal] first team since I was 16, so that is five years and that is quite a long time in football terms.

"I made my debut when I was 16 and the aim was to play for England and it came pretty quickly - when I was 18. Then the main thing after that was to keep my place in the Arsenal team week in, week out and I did during that season."

Wilshere went on to say that his critics should take his ability to play against more experienced players on a weekly basis into account.