By Lloyd Webb

Jack Wilshere says “it’s the best feeling” to be back playing following his injury.

The midfielder made his first competitive appearance of the season during the 0-0 draw at Sunderland, after recovering from a long-standing leg injury.

Wilshere came on as a late substitute at Stadium of Light, and was delighted to be back on the pitch.

"I’m not saying that I’m there yet, this is just another step on my way to full recovery" Jack WIlshere

“It’s the best feeling,” he told Arsenal Player. “All those late nights and long days in the gym, this is when it really pays off.

“You can do all the training, you can play for the under-21s to build your fitness up, but what really matters is playing for the first team and getting back on the pitch, so I’m really happy.

“I felt good. In my first under-21s game, I didn’t really feel that great. In the second I felt better and in the third I felt as though I was able to get through 90 minutes and have an impact on the game.

“I spoke with the boss in the week, he felt the same and I travelled to Sunderland. It’s a big week for me in training, getting fitter and sharper. Hopefully next weekend I can get some more game time and go from there.

“I’m not saying that I’m there yet, this is just another step on my way to full recovery. There’s a few games left and after that, hopefully I’ll go away with England to the Euros. It’s an exciting time.”