London - Arsene Wenger's redeployment of Theo Walcott as a central striker could prove to be the tactical switch that reignites Arsenal's stuttering season.
It could also persuade the England international to end his drawn-out contract stand-off with the club, further boosting Arsenal's hopes of a brighter future.
Used as a flying right winger since his move from Southampton in 2006 as a precocious 16-year-old, Walcott has always craved the chance to play up front.
He got his wish against Reading in the English Premier League on Monday. Not only did Walcott score in a 5-2 win, he revived Arsenal's attacking unit with the kind of pace and movement that's been sorely missing this season.
However, Walcott is out of contract next summer and has been linked with Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea.
Sapa-AP