Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi has stated that Jack Wilshere has the potential to become one of the best midfielders in the world, if he can overcome his problems with injuries.

The Arsenal man, who has suffered a string of injuries during his career, is currently sidelined with a hairline leg fracture that he sustained in pre-season.

Xavi has admitted that he has always been impressed with the way that the 23-year-old plays the game.

"If he had a career that had been injury-free we would already be talking about him as one of the top central midfield players in Europe," the London Evening Standard quotes Xavi as saying.

"I have played against him, I have watched him carefully and if he can overcome injuries then he can still go on and be one of the best midfield players in the world.

"With all respect, he doesn't play the English way. He has an excellent passing range, an ability not to lose the ball, it is clear that he has had his education at Arsenal."

Wilshere is yet to play for Arsenal this season due to his injury.