Born in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, in 1992, Jack began his football career at Letchworth Garden City Eagles, where his drive, intelligence and competitiveness entered in to local legend. Spotted by Arsenal's chief scout Steve Rowley while playing for Luton Town youths in 2001, Jack Wilshere was signed by the Gunners at the age of nine and immediately placed under the guidance of youth coach Roy Massey at Arsenal's Hale End Academy. Nine incredible years later, Jack was lining up for England, becoming one of the youngest ever players to pull on the famous three-lions jersey; he has since become an integral part of the England setup and his presence is key in the ongoing quest for World Cup glory in Brazil in 2014. From successive years as a captain of high-school football teams, through to becoming one of the first names in Arsene Wenger's Arsenal team-sheet, Jack Wilshere's story is the stuff of football dreams, and the emergence of such a talent is a testament to English football at both grass-root and professional levels. With the heart of Vieria, the skill of Brady, the grace of Beckham, and the elegance of Bergkamp, Jack Wilshere - Arsenal DNA is a tale of true grit and determination, and a story wholeheartedly intertwined with the history of Arsenal FC and the future of English football.

Joe Jacob is a freelance sports writer specialising in football. He lives in London and is the author of several online articles and blogs. Jack Wilshere - Arsenal DNA is his first book.