Manager Arsène Wenger has praised striker Nicklas Bendtner, saying that the Danish international has worked hard to improve on his game.

Bendtner was criticised by the Emirates faithful after a string of flaring misses against Stoke City, but then responded to his doubters in the correct way by scoring a hat-trick in the 5-0 win over Porto.

However, humility is not exactly the Dane's strongest attribute, and Wenger warned Bendtner to keep his feet on the ground and continue to work hard to improve.

Wenger said: "If you look at him now and three to four weeks ago, he is a different player.

"A few weeks ago he looked out of shape, heavy running, heavy feet. It is already different as he plays games.

"What is important for him is that he is not injured. As a top-level player, first when you need to have a good run and you have a good run it is important.

"He doesn't know that he is going to play but he knows that he will get a chance.

"As long as he does well he has a good chance of playing. As well, he has qualities that are needed in our team."