Arsenal are furious with Liverpool defender Daniel Agger for leaving Jack Wilshere with a broken foot.
Wilshere was caught by a heavy challenge from Agger in the 12th minute, leaving him in anguish on the Wembley turf.
However, the midfielder continued playing until the 59th minute before being substituted.
Sportsmail understands members of Arsenal’s footballing operation contacted each other on Wednesday night to express their surprise at Wilshere being allowed to continue considering the amount of pain he looked in.
It has since transpired that it was Wilshere’s decision to carry on playing after confirming to England head physio Gary Lewin that he was fit to play.
Sources claim it is unlikely Wilshere would have aggravated the fracture during the remaining 47 minutes he was on the field.
While Arsenal, who have a close relationship with the FA’s head of medical services Dr Ian Beasley and Lewin – both former club employees – are said to be shocked by Wilshere’s injury, the real anger was towards Agger following his robust challenge in Wednesday’s friendly.
The Dane has since described the challenge as a ’50/50′ – but that will not comfort Wilshere or Arsene Wenger ahead of the crucial season’s run-in.
Wilshere was given the all clear following a scan on his foot on Wednesday night, the midfielder himself saying the injury was merely a bruise.
But he arrived at Arsenal’s London Colney HQ complaining of discomfort, though the pain was not said to be excruciating.
As is procedure with all players reporting back to Arsenal’s training ground following an international break, an apprehensive Wilshere was checked over by club medical staff.
And a second scan showed up the hairline fracture in Wilshere’s left foot, leaving the player and medical staff shocked.
The club are confident that Wilshere will play again before the end of the season.
Wilshere will wear a protective boot while the fracture heals. He will be able to complete some gym work in the coming weeks, but Arsenal do not foresee Wilshere returning to match fitness for at least six weeks.
Written by Steve Milne
