Wilshere extends Arsenal contract

Wilshere scored a penalty in Arsenal's FA Youth Cup win over Liverpool

Jack Wilshere has signed a new long-term contract at Arsenal.

The midfielder, who signed professional terms when he turned 17 on New Year's Day, is the youngest player to play for the club in the league and Europe.

Wilshere, who joined the club when he was nine, also played in Arsenal's FA Youth Cup winning side last season.

"He made great progress last season, at Under-18s, reserves and first-team level and we saw what a great talent he is," said Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

Wilshere made his Premier League debut against Blackburn as a substitute on 13 September 2008.

606: DEBATE Wilshere looks like he will be a world class player for both club and country gunnermantdot

He made his first start in the 6-0 Carling Cup victory over Sheffield United 10 days later, scoring his first senior goal for the club.

The Hitchin-born player then made his Champions League debut as a substitute against Dynamo Kiev on 25 November.