Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has hit back at those Emirates critics of Gunners striker Nicklas Bendtner. "Nicklas has made big improvements since the start of [last] season. He has become an important player for this club," Wenger told the July edition of the official Arsenal magazine.

"When Nicklas is really switched on and focused, he is a handful for any defence in the world. He has shown that in the second part of the season. People forget how young he is, but I am sure he has won many people over in the second half of the season."

Despite the criticism, Bendtner still managed to net 15 goals in 50 games last campaign.