Jack Wilshere is 2nd rate

Without saying it in as many words, Pep Guardiola had a sly dig at the talent that the English game brings through and also the lack of trophies that Arsenal have won.

"Wilshere is a top player, he is an excellent player, not just Arsenal, but also for the national team. He is lucky because we have many players in the second team like him but he plays because there is no pressure at his club to win titles"

Pep Guardiola is a man that knows his football and also knows his footballers. Would Jack Wilshere make it into his starting XI, not a chance, would they even find room for Cesc Fabregas?!
Barcelona have a vast array of talent to call upon, and looking through their squad, it is hard to find space for a teenage player that was outshone by Christian Eriksen on the international stage. However, Arsenal have found a place for him in their team, and what a player he is proving to be. Calm on the ball at the back with a joyous lack of the 'hoof it' mentality that many English players have, he is also composed on the ball further down the field with the ability to thread the ball through unthinkable gaps in the opposing defence. With players such as Van Persie and Nasri making runs in front of him, it is easy to link the game up.

Whilst playing in the England shirt the quality was lacking. Being overawed by the situation would not have been a factor as it was a low key affair in Denmark. The ability of the player around him was more than likely the downfall to his game, as well as playing in a restricted role. Fabio Capello in all his infinite wisdom decided to deploy Jack in an unfamiliar defensive midfielder role where his only options to pass were to the wide players from his own half. Wilshere is a player that comes into his own around the opposition's penalty area, playing in front of the defence is not his forte.

Pep Guardiola may see Jack as being a threat to him tonight. If he can get into the positions that Arsenal allow him to get, he will be able to provide opportunities for the fit again Van Persie. If Jack can rise to the occasion, Arsenal may just sneak this.
On the other hand, with the unbelievable talent that Barcelona have at their disposal, it will be a very, very long night.

I am just looking forward to seeing a game without a long ball merchant stealing a living!