Arsenal hero Paul Merson is backing Jack Wilshere to make the most of his Bournemouth move.

Wilshere has managed just 160 appearances since making his debut in 2008 with injuries limiting his progress.

"I think it's a great move for both," the former Arsenal forward told Sky Sports.

"Bournemouth are getting a £30m player for pretty much nothing for one season, so credit to Bournemouth, to the players and to the staff.

"Arsene Wenger has probably said to Wilshere, 'Go down to Bournemouth, they play good football, they get the ball on the floor, they'll go through you'.

"And for me, if he can get the games going, he'll be the difference in keeping them up this season. It's a great signing.

"He's probably been doubting himself with his confidence having been dropped by England and I just think the lad needs to get playing.

"When he first got on the scene at Arsenal he was a bit of a jack the lad in a good way; confident, wanting the ball. 'I should be in this team,' he'd be saying to Wenger, 'I shouldn't be sub'.

"I just think he's lost that little bit of his mojo, but I think he'll get that back with Eddie Howe. I think he'll get a good run in the team."