Jack Wilshere has taken aim at Manchester United fans following Arsenal's progression to the FA Youth Cup final for the first time in five years.
The former Gunners and England midfielder, who is now in charge of Arsenal’s Under-18 side, guided his young team to the final of the prestigious competition after a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in front of a 10,000-strong crowd at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
Myles Lewis-Skelly bagged an extra-time winner for Wilshere’s team after City’s Justin Oboavwoduo had cancelled out Michal Rosiak's stunning free-kick.
The visitors, however, were forced to play most of the game with ten men following Laklye Samuel’s dismissal just six minutes into the tie when he brought down Omari Benjamin as the Arsenal player was through on goal.
Advert
The Gunners will now face either West Ham or Southampton in the final as they aim to lift the trophy for the first time since 2009.
Wilshere is hoping for a crowd of over 60,000 for the final, which will be played at the Emirates at the end of April.
And the Arsenal boss could not pass up an opportunity to take a swing at rivals Manchester United in his post-match interview.
Wilshere said: “I watched the Youth Cup final last year [Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest] and there was 60,000 there. And I know that our fans are better than Man United fans.
"I hope we can [get a big crowd]. I don’t see why not. I think we had like 25,000 in 2009 [it was 33,662], it was nice. So listen, let’s build it. I watch the women’s games and that energy and that feeling they create. What the fans can create, is special. I want the players to experience that. Let’s get the fans down and get their support.
"The supporters are so important and I spoke to the players before the game about using the fans’ energy to help us get through the game.
"At the end of the game, I went around the stadium to thank them because they have been amazing for us every step of the way."
Next up for Wilshere’s boys is a league clash with their potential FA Youth Cup final opponents, West Ham, on April 15th.
The Hammers currently sit at the summit of the U18 Premier League South, with Arsenal currently occupying eighth spot.
Topics: Jack Wilshere, Arsenal, Manchester United
George Nash