A few days ago, Luton goalkeeper James Tse talked about team coach and old friend Wilshere.
James Shea and Wilshere grew up together in Arsenal's youth academy and both started in the 2009 FA Youth Cup final victory over Liverpool. Wilshere later became Arsene Wenger's golden boy, while James Tse entered the non-professional league after being released from his contract in 2013.
James Xie said: "It's a little weird to call Wilshere the head coach, I have to admit. It does take a little time to get used to. I always think of him as the golden boy. I've known him since I was 10 years old. We have been to tours together. Our parents also travel together, and they get along very well. We do everything together."
Wilshere also said: "The night before I was announced, I gave James - Xie called, and the first thing he said when he picked up the phone was, 'Is that my head coach? ’ It was a really weird moment. We played in the same youth team and we've known each other for so many years and now I'm his coach. Football is really crazy. "
Regarding Wilshere becoming his head coach, James Xie said: "If you asked me when we were 17, 18, 19 years old, could you imagine Wilshere becoming a coach? , I would definitely say absolutely impossible. It's crazy, that's how football is sometimes. "
"It's a shame that his career ended early, but now that he's become the head coach, I'm really excited for him. Especially here. It’s great to be a part of his journey. "
Regarding gaining the trust of head coach Wilshere, James Xie said: "I don't want people to think that I can play because I am Wilshere's friend. I hope to be like Josh Kiely and get a chance to play based on his quality. I'm sure he will treat us all as goalkeepers. He won't consider me his friend, I guarantee that. "
"I will train as hard as I can, that's what I did before Wilshere came, and that's been the case from the first day I arrived at Luton. I'm eager to play, but that's the life of a goalkeeper. Only one person can play the main role. "