Samir Nasri can provide the "creative" spark to help Arsenal find their free-scoring touch once again, according to manager Arsene Wenger.
With captain Cesc Fabregas still sidelined (knee), Frenchman Nasri has found himself taking on extra responsibility and Wenger believes the 21-year-old has all the talent required to fulfil the role in a similar way to how countryman Robert Pires did in the Gunners' all-conquering 'Invincibles' side of the 2003/2004 season.
"Nasri is meant to have a bright future with Arsenal," said Wenger. "People tend to forget that Pires arrived at the age of 27, and Samir was 21. Yes, he reminds me of him, but he can also play in a more central position."
He added: "He is the kind of player that can score, dribble and there is more to come from him, even if I think that he has settled pretty well.
"Creative players are essential in our style of football.
"We want to keep the ball on the ground and pass the ball quickly, as a consequence, we need players capable of making it because right now we face teams that keep with 10 men behind the ball."
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