Arsene Wenger has paid tribute to Theo Walcott for his all-round performance in Arsenal's 3-0 win over Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium this evening.

The 26-year-old striker set up Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez - who also opened the scoring - as the Gunners' stunned their visitors with a 20-minute blitz in North London.

"I must say Walcott had a hugely committed performance today in a hugely convincing way," Wenger told Arsenal's official website.

"He didn't score but I like to praise the strikers when they don't score and contribute and give assists. He was involved in two goals – Ozil's and Alexis's [second] one.

"He did really fight today and showed he can fight, commit and protect the ball as well. He is gaining some aspects of his game as a centre forward and they are improving."

The victory saw Arsenal leapfrog United into second place on goal difference, two points behind Manchester City.