Manuel Pellegrini's £100k-a-week Jack Wilshere gamble looks like a mistake

By Mathew Nash

West Ham United might be without Jack Wilshere for the next five weeks. The Mirror report that the former Arsenal midfielder is currently sidelined by a problem with one of the screws in his surgically repaired ankle. The report also claims West Ham are now fearful the England international may require further surgery on the problem.

It would be a massive hammer blow for West Ham and Manuel Pellegrini if Wilshere underwent surgery. As reported by The Sun, West Ham are paying the midfielder a massive £100,000-a-week. He is on a three-year deal at the London Stadium and, so far, all the signs are that his injury problems have not yet fully cleared up.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 01: Jack Wilshere of West Ham United sits in the dugout prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and West Ham United at St. James Park on December 1, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Arfa Griffiths/West Ham United via Getty Images)

West Ham knew of his injury trouble going into the season. The Mirror report suggests it was Pellegrini who pushed for a three-year deal for Wilshere. But considering the amount they are paying the midfielder, it has proved to be a waste of money so far.

The 26-year-old has played just five times for West Ham so far this season and the club will surely need to consider bringing in other options in the transfer market.

Wilshere was always going to be a gamble for West Ham. At present, it is not paying off.