Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere admits his spell with Bournemouth convinced him to take his coaching badges.

He has revealed he wants to bring through future generations of talent at the Emirates and is keen to get his qualifications now.

Wilshere, in contention to start Wednesday's London derby against West Ham, said: “Last year when I was [on loan] at Bournemouth, they weren't in Europe and didn't have midweek games. So it felt like an opportunity.

“A few of the lads were talking about doing their Level Two badge and I thought I would jump on it and get through it.

“I really enjoyed it and thought that while I'm fit and healthy and playing I might not need it. But even if I have another ten years in me I don't want to be at the end of my career and then have a year out and think, 'What do I want to do?' then have to go through Level Two, UEFA A and UEFA B.

“So I'm doing my UEFA B at the minute and lucky we have great facilities and great players.

“Also the PFA and the FA have been really helpful. I am going to complete that and see what I want to do."

Wilshere admits Per Mertesacker's decision to take charge of the club's academy next season was an inspiration.

He added: “He might need an assistant one day so you never know! He's got that character. He's a great captain even when he's not playing.

“He's so positive and he wants the team to do well. So he's a great example for a younger player.

“If you're 13 or 14 coming through, he's someone to look up to. I'm sure he'll pass his knowledge to them."