HANDS up who saw that one coming? Not many, if truth be told, but Jack Wilshere is an AFC Bournemouth player - at least until the end of the season.

Wilshere is football’s version of Ronnie O’Sullivan. A genius not without his flaws but one who can light up a stadium on his day and frustrate in equal measure on another.

Earmarked as a future England captain, Wilshere was heavily criticised for his performance against Slovakia in Euro 2016. But if the commentators watch the game back, they will see glimpses of the quality we all know he has. Wilshere was not fit to play a summer tournament, yet he has been tarred with the failure brush alongside Roy Hodgson’s more genuine England flops.

But a change is as good as a rest. Which is potentially why Wilshere yesterday moved south. That and the chance to escape London and recharge, rebuild and reinvigorate. The remainder of this season now provides him with a real opportunity.

It’s remarkable to think that Wilshere has played just 80 league games for Arsenal, such has been his misfortune with injuries. He played only nine times last season and yet was incredibly and somewhat insanely selected to play in France. Hodgson was wrong to take him and the mental damage England’s exit may have caused a far from fit Wilshere should not be underestimated.

With two years left on his Arsenal contract, the next nine months will define Wilshere's future. The platform provided by Howe, away from the bright lights of London, could mean we finally see the best of a player who has promised so much yet has been unable to deliver consistency in his career so far. He is only 24, but Wilshere's best years are approaching faster than he would like.

Hodgson’s misplaced sense of loyalty will unquestionably have set him back, but in joining Cherries he has given himself and Eddie Howe’s side a lift that perhaps both required. It’s perfect timing for both parties.

Wilshere appears a player who is pragmatic in his approach to the game, despite Euro 2016 hurt, and the commitment that comes with it. Far from a climb down for one of England’s most naturally gifted players, this could be a match made in heaven.