Chris Coleman has hit back at Charlie Nicholas after the former Arsenal striker criticised recent performances of Aaron Ramsey.

The 23-year-old has yet to hit the heights of last season having overcome a niggling injury problem, and he was singled out by many pundits following the Gunners' 3-3 draw against Anderlecht in midweek.

However, Coleman has backed the midfielder to shine once more, insisting that he will return to his best with more game time under his belt.

Asked if he felt Nicholas's comments were unfair, the Wales boss is quoted by the Daily Mail as saying: "Yes. Charlie Nicholas is paid to give his opinion as a pundit but it is not as black and white as that. It can't be. Charlie was a player himself. No player plays well in every game and every month and Charlie should know that. They have good spells and bad spells.

"If Aaron is not at his best at the minute then the next game or the week or two weeks after he will be at his best. Aaron has played a lot of games for us where he has dictated the tempo of the game at both ends of the pitch.

"If you can do that you have got to be a good player. For me I am just glad he is playing. And I know Aaron, he needs to keep playing and playing regularly, that is when we see the best of him."

Ramsey scored three goals in his first four games for Arsenal this season, but has failed to find the net in any of his last 11 appearances.