Jack Wilshere linked with first managerial job at ex-Prem side after Norwich snub

Former Arsenal and England star Jack Wilshere could be about to take his first permanent managerial role, it has been claimed. The 33-year-old is one of the leading contenders for the top job at Luton Town after the Hatters parted ways with Matt Bloomfield on Monday.

Wilshere, who spent time in charge of Arsenal's Under-18s during a run to the FA Youth Cup final, got a taste of senior management during a caretaker spell with Norwich City last season. He oversaw a win and a draw in his two Championship games with the Canaries, but was passed over for the permanent gig.

He has remained eager to get back into senior management, though, and is the favourite with multiple bookmakers to take over at Kenilworth Road. Bloomfield took over in January with the Hatters in relegation trouble and wasn't able to save them for the drop as they fell from the Premier League to League One in just two years.

There are still a handful of survivors from the squad that competed in the Premier League under Rob Edwards, but results have been mixed in the third tier. Luton dismissed Bloomfield after a return of just 16 points from 11 games, with a weekend defeat at Stevenage the final straw.

"Performances and results from the opening 11 matches of the current campaign in League One have fallen below the levels expected, and the Board of Directors has taken the difficult decision to relieve Matt, his assistant Richard Thomas, first team coach Lee Harrison and first team analyst Ben Cirne of their duties," a club statement read. "The Board wishes to thank Matt, Richard, Lee and Ben for their efforts during a difficult period for the Club and wishes them the very best for their future careers."

READ MORE: Watford to sack 15th manager in 10 years with ex-boss lined up to return

READ MORE: Arsenal 'reached agreement' on deal in summer window - but didn't announce it

Back in August, Wilshere - who was part of Norwich's coaching team under Johannes Hoff Thorup before briefly taking the reins himself - turned down the chance to return to Arsenal. The decision was consistent with his desire to move into a senior role, something he discussed in an interview with The Athletic.

"These things that you’re involved in as a player; it’s completely different when you’re on the other side and you’re the guy who’s leading it," he said. "My ambition is to be a head coach. I don’t know when, but hopefully one day.”

When Norwich decided on their new permanent manager, it was Liam Manning who got the nod. The 39-year-old has more experience than Wilshere at Championship level, and joined after leading Bristol City to the play-offs last season.

After two wins from the first two away games, Manning's side have seen their fortunes take a dip. They are winless in five in the league, and lost to fierce rivals Ipswich Town over the weekend.

Join our new WhatsApp communityand receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.