England coach Fabio Capello claims Jack Wilshere is the most exciting young midfield prospect he has ever seen.
Wilshere, 19, has become a regular in Arsenal’s starting XI this season and has forced his way into England’s senior squad, earning two caps so far.
And Capello is predicting big things from Wilshere in the coming years, claiming the teenager will one day captain the national team.
He said: “I remember two defenders, Paolo Maldini and Franco Baresi, and one attacker, Raul, who was 19 at Real Madrid, but for personality and confidence on the pitch, he is the best young midfielder I have seen for his age.
“He will be England captain one day. He needs more caps but he is a real leader.”
Capello continued: “It is incredible. In this last seven months, he improved a lot.
“After that very first game (against Hungary last August) I was not sure because he didn't play with a lot of confidence and following the Denmark game, some people were surprised when I said I was really happy with his performance.
“But he played with confidence and without fear. He tried to do the same things he usually does when he plays for Arsenal. And everyone can understand his value after the games against Barcelona.
“I followed him. I monitored him during the game in Barcelona.
“Against the most difficult team, one of the best teams of all, he played the same game, with the same confidence that he did in the first leg in London. Then Arsenal won. The second time it was more difficult.”