Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is tipping Theo Walcott to explode this season in the Champions League.

These games have convinced us that he has the quality at the highest level," said the Arsenal boss said. "Many people disregarded him, and now in the mind of English people he is again present as a striker who can play in the national team."

Wenger added: "I could have played him in the centre at first, but I kept him on the wing at first because it was a chance for him to develop his technique.

"There was a danger he could suffer a lack of goals if he played through the middle, but I am convinced he would never go 10 games without scoring."

Wenger maintains Walcott will soon be giving defenders in the English top flight the runaround, provided he continues to work hard on his approach.

"Theo does not need to do a lot," said the Arsenal boss. "Maybe the Premier League is a little more aggressive and that is the domain where he can improve.

"This isn't an issue of strength, this is about what I call natural commitment.

"The level of this commitment is a bit higher in the Premier League than in other leagues and I believe he needs to adjust to that.

"For the rest, I feel it will all come naturally."