Jack Wilshere says the addition of Petr Cech and the maturity of Arsenal's young players has turned the club into title contenders.

The England midfielder has missed the past six months with a hairline crack to his left fibula but is hoping to be back soon to bolster Arsene Wenger’s squad.

When he does return, Wilshere is determined to play his part in Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge.

"The team’s the same and I think a big part is that we’ve been together for a few years and the younger British players have started to mature a bit" Jack Wilshere

“We’ve had a strong season and we’re in a position this year where we can really go for it,” he told Arsenal Player.

"In the past we’ve struggled around Christmas and before we’ve given ourselves no chance really, but this year we’re [close to the top] with important players coming back. Hopefully they can help us.

“We’ve added a world-class goalkeeper and he’s been massive for us with his experience. Apart from that, the team’s the same and I think a big part of [us challenging] is because we’ve been together for a few years and the younger British players have started to mature a bit and that’s really helped.

“[My recovery is] going well,” Wilshere added. “I’m back on the pitch and I’m just trying to build my fitness up because everyone knows how tough it is to play in the Premier League. I’m working on it and I’m slowly getting there.

"Sometimes it’s been difficult to stay positive, especially after the injuries that I’ve had which have been frustrating, but as the injury goes, you get closer to full fitness and you see the light at the end of the tunnel, then you start to think about coming back and getting involved in the team."