Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been impressed by Theo Walcott as a striker.

Walcott has responded superbly upon getting his chance to play up front during the last two Arsenal games - key wins at Reading and Wigan which steadied the team after their shock Capital One Cup loss at Bradford.

"I like the signs I have seen," said Wenger. "It is an interesting challenge. I think he can take it on. I always said that one day he would play through the middle and it grew in his brain.

"He is now 23. I decided to play Thierry Henry at 23 through the middle because you have to learn a lot before.

"The fact that you play in other positions as well helps your technique. On the wing you need a shorter technique against the line, once you play in the middle you can go on both sides. From the age of 19 to 23, Theo has learnt a lot. Now we will sometimes play him on the flanks, sometimes through the middle.

"Let's not put him under too much pressure. He has played two games and you have to be open-minded in our job and give people a chance. If they take it, it's good. If they don't, he will still be a fantastic winger."