Theo Walcott wants long-term role

Arsenal star Theo Walcott has outlined his desire to play as a centre-forward for the club in the long term.

The England international is currently the Gunners' top scorer with 18 goals in all competitions this season having scored in each of his last four matches.

The 23-year-old signed a new contract at the Emirates Stadium earlier this month, and he admits that he wants to spend that time playing through the middle.

"You must play to your strengths and if you are against slow centre-backs, play me," Walcott told The Sun.

"I think the manager knows what's best for the team, I do as well. Arsene Wenger has shown that faith in me and given me the chance to play up front recently.

"Hopefully I've shown him something Arsenal haven't had in recent years. In the long term I want to be a striker but it won't happen overnight."

Walcott netted the equaliser to earn Arsenal a 2-2 draw with Liverpool.