It doesn't matter how fast you can run, how accurately you can pass or how cooly you can finish, if you can't make the ball stick with your first touch, your other skills are rendered useless.
As a graduate of the Arsenal Academy, Jack Wilshere has developed an immaculate first touch.
The England international believes his deft control gives him the edge over his opponents.
"The most important thing about beating a player is your first touch - if that's good you can do whatever you want with the ball," Wilshere told FFT.
Want to cast the ball under your spell? In this video Wilshere reveals a few training tips that will help you master the ball.
Also see:
Jack Wilshere: How to keep possession
Run the midfield: Jack Wilshere
How to keep possession: Be forward-thinking
How to keep possession: Stay on the move
How to keep possession: Work on your shape
How to keep possession: Alter the point of attack
How to keep possession: Protect the ball
