Bournemouth midfielder Jack Wilshere surprisingly named Mousa Dembele as the toughest opponent in his career ahead of Barcelona legends Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi.
However, Wilshere admitted that he "hated" playing against former Fulham and Tottenham star Dembele.
Advert
When asked about his toughest opponent, the former Arsenal star told Bournemouth's matchday programme: "Mousa Dembele at Tottenham.
"I played against Messi and Iniesta, but I used to play against Dembele a lot and I hated it.
"You couldn't get the ball off him, he was strong, quick, powerful and also really good on the ball.
Advert
"His dribbling was a joke and he was difficult to play against."
Wilshere has been marred with injuries over his career as he was released by West Ham last October.
Advert
The ex-Gunners midfielder insisted at the time that he remained "convinced I can still contribute at the very top."
Wilshere returned to football last month as he signed for Bournemouth on a short-term deal.
The Bournemouth star has made nine appearances for the Championship side this season and scored two times and registered one assist.
Advert
Speaking after his free move to Bournemouth, Wilshere admitted that he was "impressed" by the club's desire to return back to the Premier League.
"From the minute I walked through the door three weeks ago, it felt natural and like I had never been away," he told the club's website.
"I know a lot of the players and staff here and I'm pleased they allowed me to train initially, and then it just went from, there.
"I've been impressed by the coaching staff, the way they work and the ambitions of the club to get back in the Premier League.
Advert
"We all share the same ambitions and I'm looking forward to playing my part in helping achieve those."
Featured Image Credit: PATopics:ย Football, Barcelona, Mousa Dembele, Lionel Messi, Jack Wilshere, Vissel Kobe, Andres Iniesta, England, EFL Championship, Chinese Super League, bournemouth, Spain, Japan, La Liga