Wenger: Podolski is one of the best finishers I’ve ever seen

Arsene Wenger has described Lukas Podolski as one of the best finishers the Arsenal manager has ever seen.

The Germany international could be set to be deployed in a central striking role by Wenger in the coming weeks after Nicklas Bendtner and Theo Walcott were sidelined with injuries.

If there’s one you want to see in front of the goal in a shooting position, it’s him

Arsene Wenger

And the Gunners boss was gushing with praise for the Germany international ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Aston Villa on Monday night.

“He’s certainly one of the best finishers I’ve ever seen,” said Wenger. “When he is physically ready, he will of course help us.

“If there’s one you want to see in front of the goal in a shooting position, it’s him.

“He can play that central role when he’s completely fit. He came on in a recent game and was not completely ready but he is one of the potential assets we have there.”

Podolski made his return from the hamstring injury which kept him out of action since August last month, and Wenger feels that the 28-year-old is now approaching full fitness.

“Podolski is in the position of [Alex] Oxlade-Chamberlain,” Wenger said. “He has been out for four months and after being available, it doesn’t mean you are competitive in the Premier League.

“It takes some time to come back. This week he looked sharper in training so he’s getting closer now to being completely fit again.”