Jack Wilshere believes new gluten and dairy-free diet is behind his Arsenal renaissance

Wilshere scored his first goal in more than two-and-half years on Wednesday night

Wilshere scored the opening goal against Chelsea (Getty)

Jack Wilshere has put his Arsenal renaissance over the festive season down to his new gluten and dairy-free diet and believes he is in the best shape of his career as a result.

The 26-year-old, who is out of contract at the end of the season, scored his first Premier League goal for two-and-a-half years during the 2-2 draw with Chelsea on Wednesday night as he opened the scoring with a powerful close-range finish.

It was not enough for the win in what was a pulsating climax at the Emirates but Wilshere’s performance was lauded as a return to his best and, after more than three years of injury hell, the game with Chelsea was his sixth consecutive 90 minutes in the Premier League.

“I have been dairy and gluten-free now for six weeks,” Wilshere said. “I feel that I look better, I have certainly lost a bit of weight, and am leaner. I am probably fitter as well. I feel sharper and quicker on the pitch. I feel like I can last longer.

“For example, at the end of the Chelsea game when we scored the second goal, I felt, 'Come on, we can go on again here'. I was pressing them and felt good.

“I know my body well, I know the right foods to eat and the best way to recover. I'm also getting the right amount of sleep.

“I've learned that over the years and I think I'm in the best shape I have ever been.”