Jack Wilshere has been selected for the England squad for this summer's European Under-21 Championship, according to Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
Wenger revealed this morning that Gunners midfielder Wilshere had made Stuart Pearce's final 23-man party for the finals in Denmark.
Pearce had been expected to announce his squad on June 1 but the Football Association have confirmed that may well be brought forward to this afternoon.
Wenger said: "I heard he has been picked.
"We just have to accept and respect the choice even if we think it is the wrong decision
Despite Wenger's opposition, Wilshere's selection is no surprise, with Pearce having included him in his provisional 40-man squad earlier this month.
Fellow senior international Andy Carroll was also included but there was doubt today over whether the Liverpool striker would take his place in the final 23.
Reports suggest the 22-year-old had expressed concern over his fitness after enduring an injury-hit second half of the season, and questioned whether tournament football could do him more harm than good ahead of the new campaign.
Also, like Wenger, Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has suggested he is not in favour of players being drafted back into the under-21 fold after graduating to the senior set-up.
In addition, Wenger has expressed concern about 19-year-old Wilshere suffering burnout as result of the number of games he has played for club and country this season.
Wenger said today: "Jack Wilshere is in the red for a while now and this can be a risk for his health.
"He will respect the decision. He knows that he is nearly at the end of his energy level but he is keen to do well.
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Jack Wilshere is determined to play for the England Under-21s at this summer's European Championship |
"He has played nearly 50 games this year. To go to a tournament for me is a massive risk.
"I am happy if the under-21s do well because I want England to do very well.
"I think it is not the right decision but will respect (it) and let him go."
Pearce has been adamant that including the best players at his disposal is crucial not only to England's chances this summer but also to boosting the country's hopes of success at future World Cups and European Championships.
One player who has confirmed he did not make the final 23 is Watford goalkeeper Scott Loach.
His omission may spark speculation Fabio Capello is preparing to make him a permanent part of the senior set-up following Ben Foster's decision to make himself unavailable for selection.
Loach, who was twice promoted last year following a series of withdrawals, wrote on Twitter yesterday: "Didn't make final 23..so no more 21s for me.
"Just an honour to have gained 14 caps for my country. Time to relax n have a few weeks off now."
Both Wilshere and Carroll are expected to be named in the senior squad for the June 4 Euro 2012 qualifier against Switzerland at Wembley meaning they would miss the under-21s' pre-tournament training camp.
England's Under-21 Championship campaign begins on June 12 and they will play three games in eight days, and five in 15 days if they reach the final.
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