While certain players may be carrying an extra bit of timber after some Christmas indulging, Jack Wilshere is actually in better physical condition after December.
Wilshere has looked markedly fitter in recent weeks as he aims to earn an improved contract at Arsenal.
The Gunners midfielder has done himself no harm in that department over the festive period as he began resembling the player once described by Barcelona legend Xavi as “the future of English football” again.
Wilshere scored the opening goal in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Chelsea on Wednesday night, seeing out the 90 minutes for the sixth time in three weeks.
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And the 26-year-old’s improved endurance is no coincidence as Wilshere revealed the changes he’s made to his diet and lifestyle recently which he feels have boosted his performances.
“I have been dairy and gluten-free now for six weeks,” Wilshere told the London Evening Standard.
“I feel that I look better, I have certainly lost a bit of weight, and am leaner. I am probably fitter as well. I feel sharper and quicker on the pitch. I feel like I can last longer.
“For example, at the end of the Chelsea game when we scored the second goal, I felt, ‘Come on, we can go on again here’. I was pressing them and felt good.
“I know my body well, I know the right foods to eat and the best way to recover. I’m also getting the right amount of sleep.
“I’ve learned that over the years and I think I’m in the best shape I have ever been.”
Wilshere’s contract at the Emirates expires at the end of the current campaign and while negotiations have taken place to extend his deal, there has been no headway just yet.
“There is no progress there (on the contract extension),” Wilshere told Sky Sports after the Chelsea game.
“Regarding Russia, I want to be going to Russia.
“But now is not the time to start thinking about that.
“I have got to take each game as it comes. Keep playing in this team and then we’ll see when March comes and the international games.”
