Born in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, in 1992, Jack began his football career at Letchworth Garden City Eagles, where his drive, intelligence and competitiveness entered in to local legend. Spotted by Arsenal's chief scout Steve Rowley while playing for Luton Town youths in 2001, Jack Wilshere was signed by the Gunners at the age of nine and immediately placed under the guidance of youch coach Roy Massey at Arsenal's Hale End Academy. Nine incredible years later, Jack was lining up for England, becoming one of the youngest ever players to pull on the famous three-lions jersey; he has since become an integral part of the England setup and his presence is key in the ongoing quest for European glory in Poland and Ukraine in 2012. From successive years as a captain of high-school football teams, through to becoming one of the first names in Arsene Wenger's Arsenal team-sheet, Jack Wilshere's story is the stuff of football dreams, and the emergence of such a talent is a testament to English football at both grass-root and professional levels. With the heart of Vieria, the skill of Brady, the grace of Beckham, and the elegance of Bergkamp, Jack Wilshere's rise to the top of the international game is a tale of true grit and determination, and a story wholeheartedly intertwined with the history of Arsenal FC and the future of English football.The rise of Jack Wilshere is one of the foremost success stories of Arsenal FC, England and the Premier League. His vision, creativity, imagination and intelligence has led him to become an invaluable member of Arsenal's first team, and his heart, grace and sublime left foot has already drawn comparisons with Arsenal legend, Liam Brady.

Joe Jacob is a freelance sports writer specializing in football. This is his first book.