Ex-West Ham midfielder Jack Wilshere has expressed his disappointment at not being given a fair chance to prove himself at the Hammers. The former England international was given a free transfer despite having eight months remaining on his contract at the London Stadium.

The 28-year-old made one appearance for David Moyes’ side, in the 5-1 win over Hull City in the third round of the Carabao Cup last month, but he has not made the matchday squad for a league game this campaign. Wilshere says he has been mostly fit since lockdown and he still feels he has a lot to offer:

“Despite all my best efforts and intentions, it has not worked out as I expected. I have been fully fit for a large period of time at the club, including over the course of the last eight months – training hard every day – but unfortunately have not been given the opportunity to play. Although of course I am frustrated that I was not fully able to showcase what I am capable of at West Ham I remain convinced I can still contribute at the very top of the game. I’m now looking forward to the future and hope to be able to make an announcement about the next stage of my career in due course.”

Despite Wilshere’s recent fitness record, it must be said that most of his first two seasons at the club were spent on the treatment table. A troublesome ankle problem meant he played just nine times in his first campaign after arriving from Arsenal on a free transfer. A groin injury then restricted his game time last season.

The biggest issue, though, was his sizeable salary which West Ham wanted to get off the club’s books. The Irons have likely paid compensation to end his contract early, and he can now join whichever club he chooses. A move to MLS is the likeliest possibility at the moment.