Henry - Arsenal need Wilshere

Thierry Henry believes Arsenal need Jack Wilshere back in their plans and is hoping the midfielder can return as soon as possible.

Gunners legend hoping midfielder can return quickly

Thierry Henry believes Arsenal need Jack Wilshere back in their plans and is hoping the midfielder can return to fitness as soon as possible. Wilshere missed the entire 2011/12 season due to an ankle injury before undergoing knee surgery in May, and he is not expected to return to action until October. In addition to being unavailable for the Gunners, the 20-year-old was also forced out of England's Euro 2012 campaign and Team GB's bid to win gold at the Olympics. Arsenal legend Henry is aware of Wilshere's importance to the club and feels his presence is vital to the Gunners' prospects of enjoying success.

Shame

"You want Jack Wilshere around," Henry, who now plays for New York Red Bulls, told Sky Sports News. "He reminds me of when I first arrived when the old guard was there. He's an Arsenal fan in the first place and you need this type of player around in the dressing room. "It's not only that he's an Arsenal fan, and not only an Englishman, but he's a good player, it's as simple as that. "What a shame that he stopped a bit because he was on his way. I just wish him all the best that he can come back quick and wear the shirt he loves so much." Henry also echoed manager Arsene Wenger's view that the return of Wilshere, and fellow midfielder Abou Diaby, will be like having two new signings in the squad. The Frenchman added: "I saw what the boss said the other day and I will say what he said - hopefully they will sign this year Wilshere and Diaby. "I thought it was a clever thing for him to say as usual. "You need those guys around. Mikel Arteta did extremely well, but you need those guys also in the squad."