Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has played down the expectation swirling around his big Danish prospect Nicklas Bendtner.

"Nicklas is not ready to start in the Premier League," said the manager. "But I want to give him as many games as I can to make him understand what is needed."

"He is intelligent, an open-minded boy. You can have a frank chat with him, tell him what is missing and he doesn't need to be told twice to do it. He is such a talent, just must play at a higher pace."

Bendtner does not believe his inexperience is a major factor. "We have a lot of players and it's up to the boss who plays," said the Dane. "I'm going to fight to try to get as much games as possible."