SunSport World Championship 2022 columnist Wilshere reveals he used to call pundits like Scholes when they criticized him

Former England star Jack Wilshere knows criticism from ex-players and fans could affect players at the World Cup.

But when he was stalled by ex-pros, he took matters into his own hands — and called them!

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The former Arsenal midfielder said: “I had a couple of comments from ex-players on TV, once from Jamie Redknapp and then from Paul Scholes, so I called them.

“With Jamie, it was when I came back from an injury, I said, ‘I think you of all should understand that you went through it too.’

“He was very respectful and said he hadn’t really thought about it that way.

“When Paul Scholes tried me he was really good, when I contacted him he ended up helping me.

“You go into the dressing room after a game, the players call directly on Twitter.

“You can get 2,000 good comments and there can be one negative, especially if it’s detailed, that can really get to your head. It drives you crazy.”

England coach Gareth Southgate is only hoping for good reviews after the World Cup opener on Monday.

But he goes into the game against Iran on Monday without Kyle Walker for the World Cup starter.

Midfielder Kalvin Phillips is also unlikely to be ready for a regular role.

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Both players could be in contention for the Three Lions’ second game against the USA on Friday, November 25.

And the duo will certainly be keen to be in top form in time for the group final against Wales the following Tuesday.