Exclusive - Hodgson: Jack Wilshere more than capable of living up to expectations

England manager Roy Hodgson has admitted defeat in downplaying Jack Wilshere’s potential as a world-class star after the Arsenal midfielder produced a sterling display in the Three Lions’ 2-1 win over Brazil.

Hodgson has previously warned not to overload the 21-year-old with pressure after quickly rising through the ranks for club and country, but the Three Lions coach has resigned to the fact Wilshere’s recent performances highlight his ability.

“He was excellent. He got the man-of-the-match and he deserved it,” Hodgson told talkSPORT’s John Anderson.

“We’ve talked about expectations and I’m trying to play them down, but he obviously doesn’t need me to play them down.

“He’s more than capable of living up to them.”

Hodgson also revealed that Ashley Cole’s 100^th international appearance came to an early close due to injury, with the full-back being replaced by in-form Everton defender Leighton Baines at half-time.

“He was injured, he was feeling his hamstring,” said the England boss.

“He was having treatment during the half-time interval and would have soldiered on, but he was clearly suffering.

“I’m very much aware that the match came in a busy time for the Premier League teams, so I didn’t want to take any chances.”