Arsene Wenger: 'Theo Walcott as quick as ever'

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has insisted that fit-again Theo Walcott has lost none of his speed following a year-long spell on the sidelines.

The 25-year-old suffered cruciate ligament damage in an FA Cup tie with Tottenham Hotspur last January, but made his long-awaited comeback with two cameo appearances in November.

However, the England ace suffered another setback after sustaining a minor groin injury, which ruled him out for eight games.

Walcott is in line to start Friday's Boxing Day clash with Queens Park Rangers, and Wenger insists that the jet-heeled winger has retained all of his electric pace despite his lengthy absence.

Asked by reporters if Walcott could rediscover his best form, the Frenchman said: "I think so because Theo was born 1989, 25 years old it's the best age now for a player of his quality.

"He's as quick as he was believe me, I see it in training."

The North Londoners sit sixth in the Premier League table, 15 points behind leaders Chelsea.