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Wilshere: Roy has lifted England

Jack Wilshere thinks the England camp is now a much nicer place to be than it was under former manager Fabio Capello.

Last Updated: 07/02/13 at 14:32 Post Comment

Jack Wilshere: Praise for Roy Hodgson

Jack Wilshere: Praise for Roy Hodgson

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Wilshere made his first appearance for England in 20 months last night and he did not disappoint, earning the man of the match award for a superb display in a shock 2-1 victory over Brazil at Wembley.

The 21-year-old injected dynamism, creativity and energy into England's midfield alongside Steven Gerrard, who skippered the team to victory courtesy of goals from Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard.

Capello gave Wilshere his debut in August 2010 and he went on to hand the Arsenal midfielder four more caps before injury prevented him from going to Euro 2012 under Capello's successor Roy Hodgson.

Wilshere has noticed a distinct change in the environment of the England camp since he returned to the international fold under Hodgson, who was appointed to replace Capello in May.

He said: "It's totally different from before. For one, the manager has changed and all the staff have changed, too, so it's a totally different atmosphere. It's a nice atmosphere.

"There are more English people around and we get on really well and are more relaxed.

"We have some good young players now and some with experience, so it's important we have got a good blend and it worked well (against Brazil)."

Wilshere received widespread praise for his performance against the five-time world champions last night, particularly as it came so soon after his 14-month foot injury lay-off.

The ambitious midfielder insists there is still plenty of room for improvement in his game, however.

"I am never happy with where I am," he said.

"I feel my form is getting better and better. I always try to improve and work hard in training.

"I always want to keep my performances up for my club and then whenever I get called up for England.

"It was a great night personally and for the team as well. The main thing was the team. We had to work hard together and this win was good for our confidence."

The fact that Wilshere and Gerrard had only played together for 13 minutes prior to last night's game led to some scepticism about whether they could form an effective partnership against one of the most feared sides in the world.

The duo linked up well, however, allowing the likes of Theo Walcott, Tom Cleverley and Wayne Rooney to bomb on in support of Danny Welbeck.

Wilshere was happy with how he combined with Gerrard, although he does admit he faces a fight on his hands to keep a place in the England midfield.

"It was great (to play alongside Gerrard)," Wilshere said.

"He is our leader, everyone can see that. He was talking to me throughout the game.

"There is a big talent pool there in the midfield. There was a lot of talent on the bench and we also have Michael Carrick (who missed the game through injury).

"There is a good mix there. We have youth and experience and that will only be good for us."

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