Is Jack Wilshere Good Enough for Bolton?

There has been much speculation about what will happen to Jack Wilshere next season with some sources suggesting that Owen Coyle will approach Arsenal about extending the youngster`s loan period. Is that a wise move, or would Coyle be best advised to look elsewhere as he attempts to bolster his unbalanced midfield?

Wilshere is both English and an Arsenal player, which means that the chances of him being over rated approach 100%. So it has proved, with one particularly witless tabloid hack claiming that proof of Premier League success has been achieved with the midfielder`s spell at the Reebok.

Not that the eighteen year old has done badly. He can pick out a cute short-range pass, like the one that gave Johan Elmander a golden chance against Manchester United, and despite a slight frame he has been more than willing to compete at a physical level.

But he`s hideously one footed. The left one`s not bad, the other`s just for standing on. If he is to be the creative maestro that`s been predicted, then that situation will need to improve. That game against Alex Ferguson`s side was his best in the White shirt, a fact acknowledged by Coyle, but other appearances have been notably lacking in end product.

A tendency to give the ball away in vulnerable positions is also troubling. Against Everton he did that three times in the second half, giving the home side opportunities to break.

Such a judgment may seem harsh given the player`s age, and the hyperbole that surrounds him is hardly his fault, but the key thing here is what`s best for Bolton Wanderers. It will be interesting to see how Wilshere progresses should the loan period be extended, but it won`t be a grievous loss if Arsene Wenger prefers to have him back at the Emirates.