Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has declared that Theo Walcott's desire to work hard and remain professional paid dividends against Reading.

Walcott inspired the Gunners to an astounding comeback at the Madejski Stadium, scoring three times to help Arsenal recover a four-goal deficit to beat the Royals in a 12-goal League Cup thriller.

Wenger insisted that he has total faith in Walcott's ability and desire to fight for Arsenal despite continued speculation over his long-term future.

He told BBC Sport: "Despite the fact that we have not sorted out his contract Theo has been extremely professional.

"I think he cares about the club and is 100% professional and I am very proud of his performance tonight."

Walcott is Arsenal's top scorer in all competitions this season, with his Reading hat-trick taking the England international's goal tally to seven.