The former Arsenal star believes Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott have benefited from the midfielder’s exit.
Bournemouth’s Jack Wilshere
Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has told the Daily Mail that Arsenal’s decision to send Jack Wilshere on loan to Bournemouth has caused Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott to become more focused.
Oxlade-Chamberlain was the Gunners star man this week as he scored both goals in the 2-0 victory over Reading in the EFL Cup.
Walcott, meanwhile, has been in sensational form at the beginning of this campaign as he has managed eight goals in all competitions, making him the Gunners top goalscorer.
Arsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain celebrates scoring their first goal
It has been an impressive upturn in form for both players and Keown believes the decision to send out Wilshere is what has sparked it.
“I would suggest that Jack Wilshere going on loan to Bournemouth has spurred on both Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott,” he told the Daily Mail.
“What Arsene Wenger did in letting Jack go was very healthy – it allowed Alex and Theo to have a good look at themselves. They will have thought that they needed to start performing or they wouldn’t be at the club, either.”
Arsenal’s Theo Walcott applauds fans after the game
The Gunners will now be hoping that both players can maintain their strong form for the remainder of the campaign.
They are eyeing a title challenge this season after finishing second last year and currently sit joint top of the Premier League alongside Liverpool and Manchester City.
Walcott, in particular, has played a key role in that start with his five league goals so far and if they can ensure he maintains that, they are likely to be up there among the contenders.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger
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