Wilshere leaves Norwich by mutual agreement

Norwich City have formally parted company with first-team coach Jack Wilshere by mutual agreement.

The former Arsenal and England midfielder was interim boss for the final two games of the season - a goalless draw away to Middlesbrough and a 4-2 home win over Cardiff City.

But the club decided against considering him for the full-time role, preferring instead to look externally for a successor to Johannes Hoff Thorup, who was sacked in April.

Wilshere, 33, ed Thorup's backroom team in October last year, having been in charge of Arsenal's under-18 side, and said he is leaving to "pursue his career as head coach".

"I'd like to thank everyone at Norwich for the opportunity to continue my coaching journey with you all," he posted on social media.

"I built some relationships that will continue to grow. Thank you to the incredible Canaries fans for welcoming me so warmly from the very first moment I ed."

Canaries sporting director Ben Knapper has previously said the club would take its time in appointing a successor to Thorup, but the BBC understands an appointment could be announced next week.

"Jack made a big impact here in the time he was with us," said Knapper, who worked at Arsenal when Wilshere was a player there.

"He built great connections with our players and staff, and we're all sad to see him move on.

"We were all very grateful for him stepping in as our interim head coach for the final two games of the season, but we understand and respect his desire to further explore opportunities elsewhere.

"He leaves with our very best wishes, and we'll follow his progress closely. I've no doubt he'll go on to have a very successful coaching career in the senior game."