The teenager has started both of the Gunners' competitive fixtures of the new campaign, making the most of injuries to grab his chance and set down a marker.

Because of a lack of fit England strikers, Walcott, 19, found himself promoted from the Under-21s into Fabio Capello's senior squad and could win a third cap in the friendly against the Czech Republic at Wembley on Wednesday night.

Walcott is now an established member of Wenger's first-team and much is expected of the attack-minded youngster this season.

central striker

The Arsenal manager has every confidence Walcott - whom he sees more as a central striker in the long term - will continue to go from strength to strength at his own pace.

"I am not worried. You have to give them [youngsters] time. He is 19 years old," said Wenger.

"Theo is not yet completely there collectively, but he can make decisions in big games. That will always be his strength."

Wenger added: "He is a boy who will always make progress, because he is intelligent and he knows where he wants to get to and that is why I believe you have to be patient with him."