Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hailed midfielder Jack Wilshere as a future "leader" at the club.

Wenger's high praise for Wilshere comes as the player enters the final few months of his current Emirates contract, with the England international keen on penning an extension to his deal.

Wilshere, who has enjoyed a fruitful spell in the Gunners team after suffering from injury in recent seasons, was given the captaincy in the defeat to Bournemouth last time out.

"I see him here because he is an Arsenal man. He was here at the age of 10 and I believe as well he's not only been here for a long time but he has some leadership qualities," Wenger told the Evening Standard. "He has a football brain. He is completely focussed on Arsenal.

"The fact that he has been away and come back - he realises as well that life here is not so bad maybe. That is something that is important that he can be one of the leaders in the future.

"Who would question his love and commitment for the club? Nobody. We have to find an agreement that makes him happy and the wish that in the future he remains fit. He is much more patient and mature."

Arsenal duo Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil are also entering the final months of their current deals.