Wilshere is like Pirlo - Pellegrini

West Ham United boss Manuel Pellegrini has likened Jack Wilshere to former Italy great Andrea Pirlo.

Wilshere is looking to relaunch his career at West Ham after several injury-hit campaigns with Arsenal, and Pellegrini believes the Brit can be compared to the former Juventus and Milan playmaker.

"A lot of you will remember Juventus around four or five years ago, they played with one holding midfielder, it was Pirlo. And Pirlo is the same as Jack. He has the same characteristics as Jack," said Pellegrini.

"I think that Jack Wilshere must play as Jack Wilshere. He is not a defensive midfielder to hold the line. He is a midfielder more comfortable when he comes out from our side and not receiving the ball back from the other goal.

"You must leave him to play alone, to play the moment, to receive the ball because he is going to make things happen," added Pellegrini.

"I think everyone praised Jack Wilshere not just for one game because if he could play in a normal shape without injury, he was always a player who makes a difference because he is a different player.

"I am sure [we will see that Wilshere again] because he is just 26 years old. Because he knows better how he must manage his physical work so as not to be injured.

"So, I think at this moment, we must give him trust, let him play, because I repeat what I said: he is a different player, and he will do it."