Cautious Wenger issues Wilshere warning, asks for patience

LONDON (AFP) - Arsene Wenger pleaded for patience over Jack Wilshere's return after the Arsenal midfielder made his first appearance in 17 months in the 1-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers.

Wilshere, who has been sidelined with ankle and knee injuries, impressed during a 67-minute appearance at the Emirates Stadium, after unexpectedly being included in the starting line-up.

Arsenal manager Wenger praised the England international's display after revealing he had not told Wilshere he was playing until the morning of the game.

Wenger, though, made it clear that he will exercise caution as the player steps up his comeback, and ruled Wilshere out of the mid-week League Cup clash with Reading.