Jack Wilshere said he was lost for words after making his return on Saturday from a 17-month injury layoff in Arsenal’s 1-0 win at home to Queens Park Rangers in the English Premier League.

Wilshere last played a competitive match for his club in May 2011, with ankle and knee injuries keeping him out of action since the start of last season.

The England midfielder emerged as a key figure for club and country in the 2010-11 campaign, and said he was delighted to be playing again after almost a year and a half on the sidelines.

“It was amazing to be back – words cannot describe it,” he said. “I was just running around smiling.”

Arsenal’s squad have changed significantly since Wilshere’s last first-team appearance.

He had only previously played alongside four of the players who lined up with him at kickoff against QPR – Vito Mannone, Bacary Sagna, Thomas Vermaelen and Aaron Ramsey – and the novelty was not lost on the 20-year-old.

“Last time I played, it was with (Cesc) Fabregas and (Samir) Nasri – now it’s with (Mikel) Arteta and (Santi) Cazorla, who are great players too,” he said.

“It’s like a new team and I’m like a new player.”

Wilshere managed to play for 67 minutes on his return to action and produced an impressive performance, notably testing visiting goalkeeper Julio Cesar with a powerful drive from the edge of the box during the first half.

Arteta claimed the game’s only goal in the 84th minute to earn a victory that lifted Arsene Wenger’s side up to fourth on the table.