Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes that forward Theo Walcott will play an important role for the Gunners during the 2016-17 season.

The England forward rounded off his pre-season with a goal in the Gunners 3-2 victory over Manchester City on Sunday, reports the Arsenal website.

The 66-year-old manager is convinced that Walcott will have a ‘strong season’ after missing out on the chance to represent England at the Euro 2016.

‘I’ve said many times that we will get a strong season from Theo Walcott because he got hit hard and I saw how he responded,’ Wenger said.

‘He went through a very tough time not being at the Euros with England, and I observed him, saw how he responded and I am convinced that he will have a great season.

Meanwhile, Wenger was equally impressed with Alex Iwobi performance against City, scoring his third goal during pre-season.

‘He fights for his place like everybody,’ he added.

‘We have a strong but reasonable squad.’

Last season, Walcott helped the Gunners to a second place finish in the Premier League, scoring five goals and assisting a further three from 28 appearances.

Arsenal take on Liverpool in their Premier League opener at the Emirates Stadium on August 14.

Kick-off has been set for 17:00.