Jack Wilshere is nearing his Arsenal return. Photo: Adam Davy/EMPICS Sport

Dean Ashton has explained the feeling of being out with a long term injury

Former West Ham striker Dean Ashton has plenty of sympathy for Arsenal star Jack Wilshere as the young star brings up the anniversary of his last Gunners appearances.

Ashton, who was forced to retire after a series of injury problems, knows that the treatment table is a lonely place for the 20-year-old, whose last appearance came on July 31 last year.

“It’s a lonely place when you are out for so long.” Ashton told The Mirror.

“You try your best to stay involved, but it’s hard to watch your team-mates train and play. Coping with the setbacks is very difficult as well.

“You get so close to playing and it can be tough to find the enthusiasm to go through it all again.”