Wenger puts faith in Walcott

Updated 10.02 Wed Apr 02 2008

Keywords: Benitez, Wenger, Liverpool, Arsenal

Arsene Wenger is ready to put Theo Walcott into action as Arsenal take on Liverpool three times in a week.

The clash with the Reds at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final begins a four-match spell which will end with the Gunners either still having it all to play for, or facing up to another barren campaign.

"Theo has made a big impact every time he has come on at the moment" - Arsene Wenger

As well as their European clashes, Arsenal will also meet Rafael Benitez's men in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday before they travel to Manchester United on April 13.

Wenger says he has been impressed by the teenager's development: "Theo has made a big impact every time he has come on at the moment.

"I will use him sometimes with him coming on, and at other times I will start with him. We will see. The first game will decide a lot."

Arsenal booked their place in the last eight of the Champions League with a superb victory over holders Milan, winning 2-0 in the San Siro.

To progress further towards Moscow, the Gunners must now also dispose of last year's runners-up.

Arsenal have a fine recent record against Liverpool and knocked them out of both domestic cup competitions last season.

However, the Reds have an excellent European pedigree and will go in search of a third Champions League semi-final appearance in four seasons, having won the competition in 2005.