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Wenger - Podolski is very efficient

13/14: Bayern Munich 1-1 Arsenal - Lukas Podolski

Arsene Wenger has praised Lukas Podolski's efficiency in front of goal.

Since joining the club in the summer of 2012, the German international has claimed 19 goals and 11 assists and has got the third best minutes-per-goal ratio in Premier League history.

Wenger has regularly deployed Podolski on the left side of the front three and believes he is suited to the role.

"He is very accurate, very quick, has a short backlift and is a quick, fantastic finisher"

"If you look at the number of games he has played, with the number of goals he has scored and the number of assists he has, he is a very efficient player," Wenger said. "He can play as a second striker hanging behind but he's not a guy who likes contact up front.

"He likes to run in behind and get the ball to feet basically. When he gets in the box, and has a chance to score, he is the one you want to have the ball. He is very accurate, very quick, has a short backlift and is a quick, fantastic finisher. That's why everyone says he is a striker.

"But when he plays up front, completely up front, you don't feel he enjoys it. He likes to come to the ball and always come deep.

"He is happy to play where he plays. He has over 100 caps with Germany and does not have one cap with Germany in the middle. Over 100 caps on the left. You cannot say it is not his job - he is happy there. He made a great international career there."

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