Francis Coquelin says Arsenal teammate Theo Walcott is near "unstoppable" on his day, and believes the England international's performance against Manchester United on Sunday proved he can play in a forward role for club and country.
The 26-year-old Walcott was fundamental in the Gunners' dismantling of United at the weekend, which saw Arsene Wenger's men go 3-0 up within 19 minutes, then cruise for a comfortable three points.
"He has shown everyone he can play in this role up front," said the French midfielder on Monday.
"It was not only offensively, what he did defensively was amazing. He was defending, chasing the ball. It makes things easier for us at the back.
"When he is in this kind of mood he is not far off being unstoppable."
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry piled on to the praise on Monday, and also liked what he saw from the former Southampton man in the impressive display at Emirates.
"He wasn't selfish. He set up goals, held up the ball, showed a great awareness for Alexis Sanchez's first assist in the game," Henry added.
"He didn't score but he was a threat. There was desire, two assists and the crowd loved it.
"With what he did against United and the way he has been answering the call recently -- if he can play like that every weekend he has to start."
Regarding a regular starting chance, Wenger says Walcott made a convincing case, despite not scoring on the day.
"Walcott had a hugely committed performance, a very convincing one. He didn't score but I like to praise the strikers when they don't score, and contribute and give assists.
"He was involved in two goals and he did really fight. He has shown he can fight, commit and protect the ball as well."