The Spaniard says he was taken aback by just how good his team-mate was when he arrived at the club, and that the England international has a “spectacular future ahead of him”

Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla admits he has been taken aback by the quality of Jack Wilshere and believes the England international is a “complete footballer”.

The highly-rated 21-year-old has re-established himself as Arsenal’s central midfield linchpin since his return from a 14-month spell on the sidelines and has become vital in their hunt for Champions League qualification.

Cazorla is confident that his team-mate can go from strength to strength if he steers clear of the treatment table.

“His return from injury was a great plus for the club and we all hope he can maintain the level he’s at because he’s very good,” Cazorla told the club’s official website.

“I didn’t know much about him when I came to the club because he hasn’t been around for very long.

“He surprised me because he is such a complete footballer.

“He’s young and has a spectacular future ahead of him and he’s also got a lot of room to mature and develop. I have no doubt that he’s going to be even more important here in the future.”

Cazorla also spoke fondly of the partnership the two midfielders have established and is looking forward to building a further understanding with his midfield counterpart.

The former Malaga man added: “His way of playing compliments my own. We play in similar positions and that makes it easier for us to establish a great understanding every day.

“He adds something extra and I’m gradually getting to know his style of play better.”