Arsène Wenger has made it plain that he is opposed to England's selection of Jack Wilshere for next Wednesday's friendly against Sweden and fearful of what could happen to the midfielder, as he feels his way back to full fitness after 17 months out with a foot injury. The Arsenal manager, who said that too many of the November friendlies were motivated by the desire to make money rather than by football reasons, suggested that all he could do was hope that Wilshere does not suffer a setback.

Wenger has discussed the issue with Roy Hodgson, with whom he has a good relationship, and reached a compromise with the England manager over the extent of Wilshere's involvement. The 20-year-old is expected to play for 45 minutes in Stockholm, although the Arsenal manager would rather that he did not feature at all.

Wilshere has played three matches for Arsenal since his return, completing 90 minutes for the first time in the Champions League at Schalke on Tuesday. He was sent off in his second game, at Manchester United last Saturday, and as a result he is suspended for Saturday's home game against Fulham.