Arsenal Ladies prevail in season opener

Pedro Martinez Losa's side ran out 3-1 winners at home against Reading on Wednesday evening, courtesy of goals from Dominique Janssen, debutant Asisat Oshoala as well as Danielle Carter. With a tough away trip against Manchester City Women on Monday afternoon, this is certainly a morale-boosting victory for a side eager to improve on last year's showing and challenge firmly for the FA WSL title this term.

Injury update for Wilshere

As for the men's first-team, there is encouraging news regarding the fitness of Jack Wilshere. The talented 24-year-old midfielder, who hasn't featured all season, has continued to progress his development as he recovers from a fracture in his left leg. Plenty of reports have suggested that if Jack does prove his fitness, England manager Roy Hodgson will consequently include him in the squad for the upcoming Euro 2016 tournament, which commences in June.

Wilshere (pictured, centre) has been a key figure for both club and country in midfield when fit | Photo: Getty
Wilshere (pictured, centre) has been a key figure for both club and country in midfield when fully fit | Photo: Getty

In the last few days, it has emerged that Wilshere has begun running outside - progression from gym work, and if his left leg reacts positively, he should be able to make a full recovery by the end of the current campaign.

Interest continues to intensify regarding Granit Xhaka

As for transfer news, Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Granit Xhaka has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates this summer. The talented 23-year-old, who has 39 Switzerland caps, has been a consistent performer in the Bundesliga following his switch from Basel in 2012. A prized asset in an ever-improving Gladbach side, plenty of sides have reportedly scouted him, and he's continued to develop at an impressive rate this season too.

According to the Metro, Standard and Mirror amongst other sources, Arsenal are preparing a £32million pound bid to capture his services before the start of the Euros this summer, where club officials anticipate his stock will rise. Although a key player in André Schubert's side, the Foals would rather cash in on him now whilst they can still command a relatively fair transfer fee - his current contract expires in the summer of 2019.

Schubert shakes hands with Xhaka following Gladbach's 2-2 away draw with Augsburg last month - where he was excellent | Photo: Getty
Schubert shakes hands with Xhaka following Gladbach's 2-2 away draw with Augsburg last month - where he was excellent | Photo: Getty
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About the author
Mosope Ominiyi
Writer and editor - European football analyst, youth enthusiast. Email: [email protected]