Arteta outlines Wilshere's current level after training with Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has benefited from the presence of his former Arsenal teammate on the training ground, with the England international midfielder working on his fitness.

Wilshere left Arsenal in 2018, but has returned to train with the first team as he looks for a new club, having spent time with West Ham United and Bournemouth over the last three years.

Academy talent Bradley Ibrahim described the 29-year-old as the best player in training, prompting suggestions the club could offer their former player a new contract.

And Arteta, who played alongside Wilshere after joining Arsenal from Everton in 2011, has commented on the player's current level as he works towards getting his coaching badges, with his future as a player remaining uncertain.

Where do you expect Jack Wilshere to be playing in the new year? Have your say in the comments section

With more than 150 Premier League appearances under his belt, Wilshere has undoubtedly had the quality to play top flight football at some points in his career.

However, after playing his last game in Bournemouth's failed promotion push last season, he has yet to cement his future plans.

With the January transfer window about to open, though, Arteta has given hope to the former England man.

"First of all it's great to have him around because he adds this special feeling to the club," Arteta said in a press conference ahead of Arsenal's Premier League trip to Leeds United.

"His talent is unquestionable, I think you've heard some players say he's the best in training. It's up to him the next step in his career and we're here to support that," the manager continued.

When asked about Wilshere's ability to play in the Premier League, Arteta said "100%, and if he has doubts I can tell him that."

However, when pushed on whether the academy graduate might return to Arsenal as a player, he said "That's a different story".

Wilshere has played fewer than 50 games since leaving Arsenal in 2018, with injury issues frustrating him at West Ham.

His last competitive start came for Bournemouth against Wycombe Wanderers in May, and he has spoken about speculation linking him with a return to Arsenal's playing staff.

"I went there, very kindly invited by them to come and train, get my fitness back, which I've done," the midfielder told talkSPORT in November.

"I am [training with the first team]. They've got a lot of midfielders, they've got Ainsley Maitland-Niles... I don't know mate. Honestly, I don't know."

One of the midfielders currently impressing for the Gunners is Martin Odegaard, and Arteta also praised the Norwegian when speaking to the media.

"He's very young but he already has a lot of experience. He's getting close to his best level. We've got a tremendous player there," the manager said.

"He's a natural leader. If you look for the perfect professional you don't have to look much further than him."