West Ham United midfielder Jack Wilshere has commended the club’s stadium and the supporters.
The 26-year-old, who signed for the Hammers in the summer after almost 17 years with Arsenal, has only made four league appearances this season.
Nevertheless, Wilshere told BT Sport of his admiration for the London Stadium, despite it being a controversial topic amongst the fans and pundits alike.
You look at the stadium, playing in this week in week out, fill it up every week. The fans are brilliant. I think for any football (club), that’s what you want, playing in big stadiums in front of passionate fans and that’s what you get here.
While an ankle injury has prevented the England international from featuring regularly for his side, the comments appear to suggest his commitment to becoming an integral part of the club.
For someone who has spent much of his career at the Emirates Stadium, receiving such praise for West Ham’s new ground is well-weighted.
While questions rage on regarding the stadium affecting team form, doubts about a diminished atmosphere since the Boleyn Ground days, or mere dislike for the purpose-built Olympic venue, it will play host to a mammoth fixture after the international break.
Manuel Pellegrini’s squad play host to his former employers and current giants Manchester City, with whom he lifted the title in the 2013-14 season. The Irons have lost just once at home in their previous four league matches.
While the arena is far from a fortress, as the Etihad is to City, their form is certainly on the up and supporters will need to be as atmospheric as ever to get behind their side for this clash.
Wilshere’s return is still unscheduled, however, it is thought that he has a chance of recovering by the time Pep Guardiola’s men roll into town.
