Wilshere 'on the way back'

Arsene Wenger is optimistic Jack Wilshere will return for Arsenal before the end of the season, but will be 'very cautious' with the midfielder.

Wenger will remain cautious regarding Arsenal midfielder's return

Arsene Wenger is optimistic Jack Wilshere will return for Arsenal before the end of the season, but will be 'very cautious' regarding the midfielder's comeback. Wilshere has not played for the Gunners this season due to an ankle injury which was initially expected to keep the England international out until February. However, the 20-year-old recently suffered a stress fracture to his foot which delayed his return and prompted fears he would not play at all this season. Wenger has confirmed Wilshere has been given the green light to step up his recovery, although he insists there is no imminent return planned for the player. The Gunners boss, though, hopes Wilshere will feature at some point before the campaign is over and that could put him in contention for inclusion in the England squad for Euro 2012. "We have good news but Jack isn't close to a comeback," said Wenger. "The last scan was good and he can start to jog again so he is on the way back but we have to be very cautious with him. "I hope to have him back before the end of the season, but we go step by step."