Thierry Henry wants Arsenal to play Reiss Nelson in his preferred position

Arsenal legend-turned-pundit Thierry Henry feels Reiss Nelson has the potential to break into the Gunners lineup as a regular.

The 17-year-old was promoted to the Gunners' reserve side earlier in the summer, and he has since contributed six goals in the Premier League 2.

Nelson earned his full start for Arsene Wenger's side in the 1-0 win over Doncaster Rovers in a League Cup tie last week, and Henry has backed the youngster to reach greater heights.

Wenger has utilised Nelson in the right wing-back spot in his limited game-time with the senior squad, but Henry feels the teenager would be more effective in the number 10 or winger position.

Writing in his column on The Sun, Henry said: " “This kid has all the talent to be knocking on the door of the first team. After two substitute appearances — in the Community Shield and Europa League — he made his first start in the Carabao Cup.

"It was a shame not to see him start in his best position. He is a No. 10 or a winger and he played as a wing-back. But as a kid, at a club like Arsenal, you take every chance you get."

Despite the promise shown, Nelson will have to wait for his chance in the Premier League with a whole host of experienced players including Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez ahead of him in the pecking order.

Wenger has also stated that the Gunners will take the Europa League seriously, and this could see Nelson restricted to the League Cup, where the club host Norwich City in the fourth round on October 24th.