England coach Roy Hodgson admits a fully fit Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere is crucial to their World Cup hopes.
Wilshere was making only his eighth international appearance in the friendly victory over Scotland on Wednesday night after a series of injury problems halted a career that showed such promise after he first made his England bow in 2010.
"Jack is a wonderful footballer," said Hodgson.
"He's done ever so well to come back from the injury but what he needs now is to get these regular games.
"All I can hope for is that he remains injury-free because he is an integral part of our plans.
"He's very important to us.
"Jack has that ability to unlock doors with his incredible footwork and that fantastic change of pace.
"For a young man he has a very good understanding of the game.
"He was caught in possession once which led to a counter, but we have to take responsibility for that.
"We are always preaching to players to be confident and bold. Sometimes you will pay the price."
