Jack Wilshere admits it has been “tough” for Joe Johnson to find himself out of Luton’s matchday squad but insists the young defender must remain patient and be ready when his opportunity comes.
The full back had to wait until Town travelled to Premier League Chelsea in the Carabao Cup for his first taste of action this season and he impressed in helping to keep the World Club Champions at bay until the 50th minute, and only conceding twice in a cup exit.
The defender was then a second half substitute in the following 5-2 defeat to Mansfield, which the Hatters were 3-0 down by half time in their first League One loss of the campaign.
But in the two matches since, Johnson has not been selected in Town’s squad, but he was not injured, with Wilshere stressing that his absence was purely a selection decision as competition for places continues to increase.
“It’s been tough for JJ,” said the Town manager. “The hardest part of my job is picking a team, but probably a little bit harder is picking the squad because you can only name six outfield players on the bench.
“They all probably have an argument for being in the squad, but I have to make these decisions. So yeah, it’s been tough for JJ. He’s trained well, he’s still a young player.”
The Luton boss believes Johnson’s response in training will be crucial as he waits for another opportunity.
“He needs to understand that when you’re not in the team you need to train hard, which he has,” Wilshere said. “So if he’s called upon, he’ll be ready.”
Wilshere also revealed that Johnson has continued to speak to him about his situation, something the manager views positively.
“He does come and see me a lot, which I like,” he said. “We’ve had those conversations. He knows what he needs to do, he knows he needs to stay ready and be patient, and wait for his chance, because it will come.”
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