England footballer Jack Wilshere to become a father at 19

By
Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 11:24 AM on 31st March 2011

England footballer Jack Wilshere is become a father for the first time, aged just 19.

The Arsenal midfielder’s ex-girlfriend Lauren Neal, 22, is pregnant and is due in August.

Wilshere was said to be ‘shocked but delighted’ when he discovered Neal was expecting.

Baby on the way: Footballer Jack Wilshire and ex-girlfriend Lauren Neal are expecting their first child

The couple split earlier this year after three years together, but they are determined to work together to raise their unborn child.

A close friend told The Sun the footballer is planning to support Neal throughout her pregnancy and attend hospital appointments and ante-natal classes with her.

The pal said: ‘They’re both delighted. It took time to sink in as it wasn’t exactly planned.

‘Although Jack and Lauren are not technically together at the moment, they’re still close. He has vowed to stand by her and support her.

‘At the moment they’re living apart, but Jack’s very keen to see as much
of the baby as possible when it is born. Who knows, it might bring them
back together officially.’

Upcoming star: Wilshere impressed during England’s game against Ghana on Tuesday

Neal is a hairdresser who lives in Hertfordshire near Wilshere’s family.

The £50,000-a-week star and Miss Neal were said to have found it increasingly difficult to maintain their relationship as his footballing career took off.

Wilshere has been superb for his club and country since securing regular first-team football this season.

After impressing in England’s friendly draw with Ghana on Tuesday, he insisted he is not feeling jaded after a hectic campaign.

He said: ‘I’ve been playing Saturday and Tuesday or Wednesday when we were in the Champions League. Now we are out of the Champions League, to be honest I could have played the full 90 minutes against Ghana.

‘I just think the manager will be delighted I’ve been picked for my national team. To be honest. I feel better than I ever have. I’ve never played a full season but I feel fitter than I ever have.

Wilshere’s agent declined to comment to MailOnline on his client’s private life.