Unai Emery says that Jack Wilshere’s departure this summer came about because he could not guarantee him a place in the side.

The England international ended a 17-year association with us and is now a West Ham United player. For Emery and Wilshere, it was a difficult decision.

“The conversation with Wilshere was a very good conversation, very directly, together,” said Emery.

“I explained to him my opinion and how I wanted to create the team, and I wasn’t sure he was going to play in the 11 players.

“Also he explained to me that the decision is not easy for him, but he wanted to chose the best option for him, and every time it is with respect.

“I know this player is important here for the supporters and he grew up here in Arsenal, but I can’t guarantee him a place in the starting 11. It was a tactical, technical decision.

”It is for that reason that he chose to leave here, and I respect this."