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Jack Wilshere insists he could have made an impact for England at World Cup

Jack Wilshere
Image: Jack Wilshere was left out of England's World Cup squad

Jack Wilshere has taken to social media to express his frustration at missing out on England's World Cup squad.

The Arsenal midfielder was a notable absentee when Gareth Southgate announced his 23-man squad on Wednesday, with Wilshere tweeting his belief he "could have made a real impact" in Russia.

"Think it's about time I had my say...," Wilshere tweeted.

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Gareth Southgate says Jack Wilshere's end to the season ruled him out of contention for a place in England's World Cup squad

"It goes without saying that I'm naturally incredibly disappointed to have been left out of the England squad for the World Cup. I've felt fit, sharp and strong all season and believe I should be in the squad!

"And given the chance I could have made a real impact.

"However, I have to respect the manager's decision and would like to wish the whole squad all the very best for the tournament.

"I will always be an England fan and will be supporting the boys with the rest of the nation."

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Bournemouth captain Simon Francis says Wilshere should have been included

Wilshere played 38 times for the Gunners this season but only 20 of those came in the Premier League and Southgate decided he had better midfield options available to him.

A number of other high-profile players - including Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart, Southampton full-back Ryan Bertrand and Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling - also missed the cut but Wilshere is the first to speak publicly about his disappointment.

England will play two friendlies before travelling to Russia, against Nigeria at Wembley on June 2 before they take on Costa Rica at Elland Road five days later.

The World Cup starts on June 14. England first play Tunisia four days later, before facing Panama on June 24 and Belgium on June 28.

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