Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger says Theo Walcott's future with the club could be as striker.

Wenger says that Walcott, 26, is nearing match fitness again and he now wants to realise his long-term plan for the player.

He said: "It's not too late for him. I think his position will be as a striker. I have worked with him in both situations, as a striker and as a wide player.

"The quality of his runs is so fantastic with the pace he has, and he is a good finisher now.

"When he was younger, he rushed in front of goal but he has improved now.

"He can be transformed. He is naturally gifted and can play in this position. Olivier Giroud has different qualities: he can head a ball and he plays with his back to goal. Theo is a runner who is capable of going in behind."