Wenger Convinced Walcott Will Make The Grade Arsene Wenger is still convinced that teenage forward Theo Walcott can become a top striker.

Theo Walcott has what it takes to become a fantastic striker, says his Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

Walcott, still only 18 (he turms 19 in March) is set to return to the starting XI for the Gunners tonight as they go to neighbours Tottenham for the Carling Cup semi-final second leg.

It was Walcott's late goal that earned Arsenal a 1-1 draw in the first leg at the Emirates, where Spurs dominated but couldn't make it count.

However, Wenger then rested Walcott from the squad for Saturday's 3-0 Premier League victory at Fulham, in order to keep him fresh for tonight's Cup showdown.
Wenger accepts that Walcott is not where he was expected to be after two years with Arsenal, but is fully confident that he will make the grade.

"People asked me 'do you expect more from him?' I said of course, because I cannot expect less from an 18- year-old player and I believe that he is like every player and wants to play in every game," said Wenger.

"I am amazed that people are surprised that he is a little bit frustrated when he doesn't play.

"It is part of his job and part of his improvement.

"Overall I am very happy with him. I've said many times he will be a striker because of the timing of his runs, and he is clinical finisher."