Former Arsenal centre-back Martin Keown has claimed that the Gunners will "certainly" offer Jack Wilshere a new contract, despite the Englishman's injury troubles in recent seasons.

Wilshere, 25, spent last season on loan at Bournemouth after being deemed surplus to requirements by head coach Arsene Wenger.

As it stands, Wilshere will return to Arsenal for pre-season training next month, although the midfielder's current deal with the London club will expire next summer, which has led to a host of speculation surrounding his future.

Keown, however, is confident that Wenger 'will want to keep' Wilshere at the club despite his injury troubles.

"We know Jack is a special talent. His injuries have marred his career. It must be tough for Arsene Wenger to watch. How many times has he broken ankles and had operations?" Keown told The Mirror.

"His quality isn't in doubt, it's his health that's the issue. There are some big decisions to be made but I would feel he is someone Wenger would try to keep. Somebody that he will try to support. They certainly will offer him a new contract."

Wilshere's latest injury problem saw him suffer a broken leg in April while representing Bournemouth against Tottenham Hotspur.