Bournemouth confirm signing of free agent Jack Wilshere

Bournemouth have confirmed the signing of former Arsenal and West Ham midfielder Jack Wilshere, who previously spent the 2016/17 season on loan with the Cherries.

Wilshere has been without a club since his contract with West Ham was terminated in October, but he had been training with Bournemouth already this season.

The 29-year-old former England international has signed a short-term deal with Bournemouth until the end of the season and will the club’s number 11 shirt. He will hope to play a role as the Cherries aim to secure promotion from the Championship and a quick return to the Premier League.

“It feels great to be back and I can’t wait to get started. From the minute I walked through the door three weeks ago, it felt natural and like I had never been away,” Wilshere told AFCB.co.uk.

“I know a lot of the players and staff here and I’m pleased they allowed me to train initially, and then it just went from there.

“I’ve been impressed by the coaching staff, the way they work and the ambitions of the club to get back in the Premier League. We all share the same ambitions and I’m looking forward to playing my part in helping achieve those.”

Jack WilshereJack Wilshere
Wilshere played 27 times for Bournemouth on loan in 2016/17 | Ben Hoskins/Getty Images

Wilshere made 27 appearances for Bournemouth in the Premier League during his first spell with the club four years ago. He returned to Arsenal as a bit-part player the following campaign but was released at the end of his contract at 2018. His time at West Ham was later ravaged by injuries.

Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake said of Wilshere’s signing, “In the three weeks he has been training with us we have seen hunger and desire to match his undoubted talent, and he will add some great attributes to our midfield over the coming months.”

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