Arsene Wenger has challenged Theo Walcott to cement his place in the Arsenal team next season. The development of the 19-year-old forward has been one of the positives from a campaign that promised so much, yet failed to deliver silverware for the Gunners.

Walcott took his final tally to seven goals as Arsenal beat Sunderland 1-0 at the Stadium of Light on Sunday to finish third in the Barclays Premier League, four points behind champions Manchester United.

With no European Cup final to look forward to, thoughts for Wenger now turn to the challenges ahead next season. The Arsenal manager firmly believes with the right work ethic, Walcott can play a major part in the club's future - and not just as an impact player off the bench.

"Theo started the season as a promising young player, and he has finished the season as a guy who is ready to fight for a regular place in the side," Wenger said.